When discussing the building with locals I have heard some remarks such as “The building isn’t worth saving” or the “building isn’t safe for habitat”. Others have suggested the building be demolished to make way for much needed downtown parking.
While there is a huge need for downtown parking, I personally don’t feel that a 30 foot by 130 foot lot would be the answer to the problem. The building is an eyesore and my first plan of action is paint, remove the bean stock on the north end of the building and replacement of the windows (see my plan of action post)
So without further adeau, I am going to post excerpts of the engineers report done in mid 2008 on the building for your viewing pleasure..
Feel free to click on images to read the report..
engineering page 1
engineering page 2
engineering page 3
engineering page 4
See, the building isn’t a brick structure, its a steel frame and concrete building. Its actually built as modern buildings with an I beam Steel frame and concrete poured floors and ceilings. The structure would cost as much to tear down as to restore it. Why not keep part of Waynesburg history alive?
Jason,
Congrats on this project! As a former Waynesburg resident – I know first hand the beautiful things in town and can only hope for the best. My suggestion has always been to have a heritage center on the first floor (non-profits, get grants, get stimulus money) and then go from there.
If you ever need any preservation help/advice, do not hesitate to email. Please dont take out the historic windows in the building, they can be renovated and be just as good – if not better – than the new windows. Its a bad trend. I would also take a look (perhaps from Otis) to see if they could restore the elevators – or leave the cars, while replacing the mechanicals. Finally, you may want to see about the LEED-Existing Building process to get the building certified green. Could be lots of fun….
Aaron
Though I’ve never been to PA (would LOVE to visit!) — I am extremely happy to see you are undertaking this project. It’s a pity that such beautiful and amazing buildings are torn down to be replaced with simple, yet modern structures — or even worse, replaced with a parking lot.
I wish I weren’t so far away — I’d love to help with the restoration of this building. It would be an amazing opportunity and incredibly rewarding experience.
Many kudos to you and yours!
Hello,
This is a very interesting historic preservation project, a large undertaking. I am a preservation architect, born in Canonsburg, PA and now living in Sacramento CA. I have returned to Waynesburg, PA several times of the years. I am a descendant of Thomas Crago, who was killed by Indians near Carmichael in 1770. I look forward to seeing the project this year.
Best regards,
Steade Craigo