Bliss Building Set for Demolition
Contractor issued demolition permit
May 30, 2026
A demolition permit was issued Friday that allows for crews to immediately start taking down the Bliss building in Downtown Albuquerque.
The demolition of the building is necessary following the partial collapse of Lindy’s Diner on April 27, 2026. Guzman Construction Solutions was issued a demolition permit for the Bliss Building, located at 500 Central Ave SW.
“The Bliss Building has been part of Albuquerque’s story for generations, and we know many are sad to see this outcome,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Our priority is protecting public safety and moving quickly to address the risks posed by this structure while supporting the downtown businesses, residents and visitors.”
Due to ongoing structural instability and safety concerns, road closures at 5th and Central will remain in effect for now. The current traffic plan allows westbound travel on Central. Vehicles can travel southbound on 5th to Central and go east or west, and vehicles can also travel north on 5th from Central. This plan remains subject to change for safety reasons.
“On Monday we will begin coordinating with the contractor on an expedited schedule so that this unfortunate matter can be taken care of as soon as possible,” said Planning Department Director Alan Varela.
The Planning Department, through Code Enforcement, had been monitoring the property for several weeks because of structural safety concerns. Below is a timeline of the response:
- Code Enforcement conducted an external inspection of Lindy’s Diner on March 20, 2026, after a local news outlet contacted the Planning Department regarding a tip.
- Between March 21 and April 10, Code Enforcement received two separate complaints through the City’s 311 system from different parties concerning the property.
- These complaints, along with the initial inspection, prompted an additional inspection of the building on April 2.
- Findings from that inspection warranted a more in-depth evaluation, which was conducted on April 20.
- Following the April 20 inspection, the property was red-tagged and issued an emergency shutdown order due to concerns about potential structural collapse.
- On April 27, just after noon, a portion of the restaurant collapsed. City personnel responded immediately to secure the area. A permit for debris removal was issued, and debris was tested for asbestos as part of standard safety protocols.
- On April 29, the City completed its initial review of the building and contracted a structural engineer to verify it’s findings. Additionally, asbestos testing of the debris and portions of the remaining structure. Test results showed no asbestos in the debris pile, however, asbestos was identified within the structure, specifically in sections of piping and flooring adhesive. Appropriate safety measures are being taken to manage the hazardous materials.
- On April 30, an independent structural engineer completed a secondary review of the property to further evaluate the condition of the structure. They concluded that the structure was unstable and needed to be demolished.
Lindy’s Diner has been an important part of Downtown for generations. The City takes the condition of all buildings and structures seriously and is focused on public safety. Nearby businesses remain open and accessible, and people are encouraged to continue supporting Downtown restaurants, shops, arts venues, and local events.