Boston parks officials are hoping the public can overcome the gross-out factor and get used to the thought of having a bite to eat in a former public restroom.

The Boston Herald reported that the city's Parks and Recreation Commission was scheduled to go before state lawmakers to ask permission to lease two former public bathrooms on city land for possible use as eateries.

The "Pink Palace," a 660-square-foot mausoleum-like structure on the Common, and the granite, 670square-foot "Duck House" in the Back Bay Fens have not been used as bathrooms in decades.

They both need extensive renovations, but some city officials think they are prime spots for privately run, limited-service restaurants.

Source: Boston Herald, http:// www.bostonherald.com

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