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The 21,500 square foot Safeway in downtown Monterey at 470 Munras Ave. opened in 1951, and is still more or less architecturally original. I wouldn't be surprised if it is the oldest Safeway in California that is still operating in its original building. Anyway, the future of that store is looking choppy. The city of Monterey owns the property, and Safeway's current lease will expire in April. Safeway wants to renew its lease and knock down this store to build a larger store, but Safeway and the city of Monterey have many disagreements, and have a long history of such. The city has declined to renew Safeway's lease when it expires in April. There are potential plans for a Trader Joe's and other stores, supposedly in the existing building. Meanwhile, Safeway is sending ad campaigns to residents to petition the city to renew Safeway's lease.

The building certainly does look original. I was quite impressed with this store. The interior was quite modern though. As far as demolishing it and building a new store goes, that would prove an inconvenience to the residents. It would make more sense for the store to either continue operating, or Safeway to close and another grocer move in quickly.

Safeway has proven no real motivation to preserve the older stores. I really wonder what is going to happen to all of the old stores left up in rural Oregon.

I live in NJ but a few years back visited frieds in CA and saw that store. I actually forget what it looks like. Can anyone take some photos (in and out) to preserve a piece of history? Please be sure to pst them also. Thanks

I loved this Safeway, it was so classic. I hope it stays open. I am assuming Safeway has a few other locations in Monterey but think it is a shame to alter or get rid of this store.

I recently spent a week in central California and happened on the 50's style Safeway in the center of Monterey. When did this store close? And does anyone have any photos of this classic gem? Guess who did not have his camera at the right time?
I also finally visited the original marina Safeway on Marina Blvd in San Francisco. It has been very nicely remodeled inside but has kept the original arched roof and full glass front. What a thrill it was to see and shop in this store.

I'm pretty sure it closed midnight on July 9. Then, employees packed up the remaining merchandise for transfer to other stores. The building will then be gutted and subdivided to accept a Trader Joe's and various retail shops. This Safeway seems to have been extremely modern for 1951, with exposed steel cross beams in the ceiling and square (instead of round) air diffusers in the ceiling. Also, the store was a good size for being as old as it is. It kept up with the times with a late 1980s decor, a deli, and a florist. Here are a couple articles with a picture each;

http://www.montereyherald.com/mld/monte ... 011546.htm

http://www.montereycountyweekly.com/iss ... icle.news2

yes, I'm an employee of safeway and was downtown. I actually was the closing manager who locked the doors and on Sunday night. Yes it was July 9, 2006 <political reference deleted>.

Here are some photos I've found through searching:

Exterior: http://catlover.myhome.cx/images/20051210_3.jpg

Interior: 2005 photo - http://www.montereycountyweekly.com/iss ... icle.news2

After closure - http://flickr.com/photos/kid_ampersand/229824672/

Looks like it never got an update past 1980s decor...