TYLER, Texas — The empty building that has sat at the intersection of Loop 323 and South Broadway Avenue in Tyler was recently demolished. Now, rumble is all that remains of the old T.G.I. Friday's.
"I think it's a valuable corner, and I think it will be some kind of restaurant," said Cindy, a Tyler resident. "I don't know why they had to tear down the whole building to do that."
T.G.I. Friday's opened in Tyler in 1998 and expanded its footprint in 1999, according to Tyler Morning Telegraph archives. At that time, another 1,008 square feet was added, bringing the seating capacity to 220.
"I think it's going to be a restaurant, too," said Maria. "Hopefully, an In-N-Out Burger."
While visiting the French Quarter and on social media, people within the city have many guesses as to what will replace the restaurant.
Some have food on the mind and are hoping for another restaurant, specifically one the city does not already have. And then, there are those residents who are wanting a little something different, pitching retail stores to entertainment centers like Dave & Buster's.
"How about a Bass Pro Shop or Cabela's?" asked John Boone. "I have to drive to Dallas for those."
As the remnants of the old building are being cleared, a city representative told CBS19 that a business proposal for the location is being considered. The proposal is for a 7-11 service and repair station. However, no permits have been issued.
The closest 7-11 location to the city is in Forney, which is about an hour and twenty-minute drive away.
Currently, the old T.G.I. Friday's space is under a C-1 Light Commercial zoning, which generally allows for restaurants and retail without any outdoor display. According to the city, this zoning classification includes gas stations like 7-11.
This means, if the proposal is accepted and a permit is submitted, Tyler could soon have its own Slurpee paradise.