SALEM — It was a bold move when a Boston developer decided to transform part of the former Charles Street Jail into a restaurant and call it "Clink."
It would be even bolder if a North Shore developer turns the former men's bathroom at Salem Willows into an eatery and calls it "Flush."
That seemingly crazy scenario became a possibility this month when the Park and Recreation Commission voted to seek proposals for redevelopment of the old men's bathroom at the Willows, a boarded-up, green-shingled building that has been closed since 2008.
Or maybe the idea isn't so crazy.
"We got the idea from Boston," said Doug Bollen, the city's park superintendent.
The city of Boston sought "expressions of interest" last summer for a 1920s comfort station, or bathroom, on Boston Common.
"We had two responses, both from restaurants," said Brian McLaughlin, executive secretary to the Boston Park and Recreation Commission.
As a result, Boston is expected to seek formal proposals in February on a 15-year-lease for its historic comfort station.
Bollen said Salem may start advertising its bathroom even sooner, possibly by January. Just imagine the wording of the legal advertisement: "The City of Salem is seeking a long-term lease on a Salem Willows property — 450 square feet, 1 sink, 4 urinals, 7 toilets."
Some people who hear about the idea "say 'gross' right off the bat," admitted Bollen. But he likes the idea, which is why he presented it to the city board. Bollen expects the city will ask a developer to sign a five-year lease and do a major renovation, which essentially will mean gutting the building.
"They can't do any additions to the building because it's park land," he said, "but they can renovate the inside."
Bollen thinks its an idea worth pursuing. The building, despite being used as a bathroom, has some interesting architectural features and is located in the middle of a busy public park with nearby amusements and boating.
"It's an opportunity for the city to make some income as well as provide another venue for residents to enjoy," he said.
As far as its future use, Bollen said the possibilities tossed around include a take-out restaurant, a snack bar or a convenience store. Or maybe it could become a barbecue pit with a tent outside in the summer for outdoor seating.
"I think it would be a big hit," he said.
Chris Burke, chairman of the park board, also thinks the old bathroom, which offers views of Salem Harbor, has possibilities.
"It's one of the prettiest places in the city," he said, "on the outside."
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