Lighthouse Diner Building Renovation Begins News by Michael C. Hild - April 19, 2019April 19, 201911 If you have been on Hull Street in the past few weeks you may have noticed that the renovation of the Lighthouse Diner building is officially underway. From the roof of the old diner views of newly renovated buildings are wildly different now than it once looked just a few short years ago. Nearly 50 years ago when the Lighthouse was last open for business, Hull Street must have also looked quite different. But enough about nostalgia… The first phase of the project includes stabilizing the shell of the building so that it is free of hazards and water tight. Once that is complete, the conversion of the rear of the historic building into 2 apartments will begin. A new, modern addition at the rear of the property will also be added containing two additional apartments for a total of four one bedroom apartments for the project as a whole. As Hull Street continues to improve and add density, the hope is that the second phase of the project will proceed and ultimately bring back the old Lighthouse Diner. Plans for the second phase restaurant build out will be contingent upon continued steady progress for the Hull Street corridor in generating foot traffic, density, and generating repeat visitors as the corridor gradually comes back to life. For now, we can watch the contractors work their magic as they strive to preserve this important part of Hull Street’s legacy.
I love all of this renovation going on in this area. So many cool buildings, and shops. Bringing this part of Richmond back to life is so welcome. All the neighborhoods around are getting face lifts as well, hope to see the area thriving again. Reply
Would happen to have any original pics. I think I was too young to remember this place, or moved away by then. Grew up off of Semmes, but moved in ’75. Reply
Great to see Manchester on the rise. I used to walk Hull St on breaks from my nearby former employer when it was somewhat sketchy . The Diner was always prime to get renovated. Keep up the good work! Reply
We purchased the Lighthouse Restaurants in the 50’s. One of the last ones to close the doors. A lot of fond memories. We were open 24/7. 351 day a year. We also owned the one on the Boulevard. Reply
That is awesome to have Hull Street transform to the days when I was in my youth. Many fond memories of the stores and seeing people out and about! That was about 59+ years ago. I remember Simon the Tailor, Montgomery Ward, Stevens, the Bookstore and other stores that served the Blackwell neighborhood. It would be great to be able to walk Hull Street to have a bite and a beer. One of my rituals after cutting grass as a kid was to go and get a slice of lemon meringue pie and soft drink from Woolworths……I think that was the store. I do know that Mr. James Battle was the store manager and his wife worked the sandwich counter! Find memories!! Reply
