Motoramp Garage had been at its Commerce Street location since 1925. It was probably one of Tacoma' s first multi-story parking garages. Large signs identify the building, making it clear that covered parking was available for downtown customers. View of garage on Commerce close to 9th Street; Moose Temple is next door with Ben-Dew's restaurant at opposite end. Photograph ordered by Al Taylor, Standard Oil of California. TPL-1732
Two men sit on a bench on the first floor of the Motoramp Garage possibly waiting for their cars to be repaired in this January, 1953, photograph. The Motoramp was a multi-story parking garage located downtown on Commerce Street; it had parking available for over 300 cars. Besides covered parking, the Motoramp also offered car repairs, lubrication and the chance to purchase batteries and Prestone anti-freeze. No need to run to the gas station: the Motoramp also had at least two pumps for outgoing patrons. Photograph ordered by Al Taylor, Standard Oil of California.
Motoramp Garage was built in 1925 as a multi-story parking garage with a 325 car capacity. Designed by architect A.J. Russell and constructed by the Hurley-Mason Co., it was built on the site of the Fife Hotel/Hotel Donnelly. Ben-Dew's, who served fried chicken, sandwiches and spaghetti and Vern's Sandwich Shop were two eating establishments located on the ground floor in the Motoramp building. A sign high up on the building directed passersby to the Hotel Winthrop a block away. Photograph ordered by Al Taylor, Standard Oil of California.
