The Bethlehem Steel Administration building is going to be
standing for at least another 90 days in an attempt to determine if the
historic structure can be saved and rehabilitated. Preservationists and
community activists have been hard at work convincing the owners and the City
of Lackawanna to reconsider the demolition in favor of rehabilitation. Yesterday,
Judge Kenneth F. Case granted a stay of demolition to owners, Gateway Trade
Center.
Local activist and blogger, David Torke of fixBuffalo, has been instrumental in
the discussions to save the building and consider reuse. Torke was the person
who first spotted the demolition equipment on site several months ago. Working
through his various networks he was able to assemble a team to spread the word
and protest the city's decision to force the demolition of the structure.
Danielle Huber, chairperson of the Lackawanna Industrial
Heritage Group (LIHG), is ecstatic about the stay of demolition and
recognizes the need for a strategic plan. "Within the next 90 days it would be
ideal to stabilize the components of the building that meet the historic
criteria and button it up properly for the winter months," said Huber, "As well
as developing a thorough reuse plan and allocate grant monies being offered."
The LIHG is a group of concerned citizens who urge leaders
to act now for the implementation of historic preservation ordinances. They
will be working with Lackawanna officials to make the city a Certified Local
Government.
Owners were originally planning to use grant money from New
York State to offset the costs of the expensive demolition. However, the money
was intended for rehabilitation and the funds could not be used for demolition.
Once Elizabeth Martin of the State Historic Preservation Office walked through
the building, it was determined the building was definitely eligible for National
Register listing and needs to have the structure evaluated to see if it is
sound.
The conversation around the building has taken a complete
turn from a definite demolition to evaluating rehabbing the structure. Historic
tax credits may bring the project online as discussions continue between the
owners, Torke, the City of Lackawanna, and preservation consultant, Jason Yots.
If you'd like to see some fantastic photos of the building,
historic and current, check out this link to the Administration Building
Facebook photography page.
Entry Image courtesy of the Steel Plant Museum via David Torke of fixBuffalo.
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