Greeley, Colorado, Sees End of Historic Business and a Great Mural

You never know where you're going to find great art in Colorado; it could be along side of an old building, like you'll find in Greeley.

The problem with old buildings as a canvas - sometimes those buildings have to come down. Yes, the only thing constant is change, but it's still sad to see not only a wonderful mural go, but also a beloved bike shop.

People will pass, what will become just a parking lot, and say, "Remember George's and that great mural?" Hopefully many will remember.

Longtime Bike Shop in Greeley to Say 'Goodbye' After Nearly 100 Years

When you consider how fitness-conscious Coloradans can be, it's not really surprising that a bike repair shop could last so long. It's a bike shop called "George's Repair Shop," near the corner of 7th Street and 9th Avenue in Downtown Greeley.

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To be honest, until I read about George's and the mural in the Greeley Tribune, I wasn't familiar with them; maybe I would have if had a bike that needed repair.

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According to the Tribune, George's Repair Shop has been in operation since 1937 serving countless bike enthusiasts for all this time. The current, and what will be the final owner of George's, is George's grandson, Don Eckhardt.

With Don being ready to retire, and the building becoming in need of its own repair, the family has decided to let Weld County purchase the building, and its warehouse next door for almost $1 million.

Historic Buildings in Downtown Greeley to Be Turned Into a Parking Lot

Weld County plans on taking down the two buildings (which date back to 1889) and turning the pad into a parking lot; a lot for Chase (across the street) employees to use during the week, and for the City of Greeley to have access to on the weekends.

In the end it's a "win-win," with Don getting to retire and Chase employees having parking, but it's still sad to see a business everyone loves end its run.

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The Einstein mural, created by Armando Silva, on the west side of the warehouse, has been there since 2011, with more done to it in 2020. According to the Greeley Tribune, that mural not only inspired the public but also the city; as there are now over 40 murals around Downtown.

With any luck, Weld County will find a way to commemorate George's, along with the mural, when they install that parking lot.