Old Howard Faces Possible Demolition

The Old Howard, still reeling from last fall's municipal crackdown on burlesque, may soon become the site of a modern parking structure. City officials are studying the proposal and will hold a hearing Nov. 18 to detect public reaction to the project.

A public hearing is necessary before the city can seize property under the right of eminent domain. Favorable reports from the study group and the hearing will spell the end of Boston's once-famed burlesque theatre. A new expressway into the Scollay Square region has created a need for increased parking facilities in the area.

An employee of the Old Howard seemed resigned to the theatre's eventual disappearance. "Naturally, I don't feel good," he said, adding fatalistically, "but what are you going to do?"