Streets are open now after Marfa traffic was diverted last night
This is a developing story and will be updated.
A fire that broke out next to the Holland Hotel in Alpine late yesterday afternoon could not be quickly contained and burned through several businesses in a row along W. Holland Ave. across from the Amtrak station between 5th and 6th Streets.
Several witnesses said the fire seemed to start in Judy’s Bread and Breakfast Bakery Cafe, although officials have not confirmed the location or cause. Smoke enveloped much of the downtown area and beyond as firefighters let the blaze burn itself out while trying to protect the adjoining buildings, including the Holland Hotel and the Catchlight Art Gallery. Alpine Mayor Catherine Eaves confirmed the following businesses are a total loss: ​​Judy’s Bread and Breakfast, Eva’s Salon, Gallery on the Square, La Azteca and Vintage Antiques and Snazzy Things.
Marfa police blocked Highway 90 eastbound during the fire to prevent travelers from heading through downtown Alpine. However, Alpine Police Chief Darrell Losoya confirmed this morning that all streets in Alpine are now open.
No injuries have been officially reported. Firefighters from Marfa, Fort Davis, Marathon, Terlingua and the Texas A&M Forest Service assisted the Alpine Fire Department.
Historic Alpine has launched a fundraising campaign for businesses affected by fire, according to a news release from Abbey Branch, director at the nonprofit, which seeks to maintain Alpine history.
“Our hearts are heavy as we stand together in the wake of a devastating fire that has claimed one of Alpine’s landmark buildings, 109-115 West Holland Avenue,” Branch said. “This historic structure, a pillar of our architectural heritage and a cultural icon has been lost to flames. Our immediate goal is to help vital local businesses get back on their feet quickly.
In response to this crisis, a special account will be established under the stewardship of Historic Alpine Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. “The initial focus of this fund will be to assist the affected businesses in relocating and reestablishing operations quickly in nearby facilities. Funds will be directed to those businesses that secure new locations, ensuring they can resume serving our community without undue delay,” the release said.
Historic Alpine also is committed to legal and ethical fundraising, Branch said. You can see more on the group’s Facebook post. You can donate here, or at:
Historic Alpine, Inc.
P.O. Box 304
Alpine, TX 79831*Please mark as Alpine Business Fire Relief Fund
Questions on the fund can be directed to abbey@historicalpine.org.