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Revival for Yeadon Theater Remains Elusive
posted by
ryanwriter
on
January 8, 2004 at 7:49 am
YEADON, PA — The restoration of the Yeadon Theater is slowly inching along, according to a new report in the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Current plans call for short-term stablization of the theater to begin within the next four months. Stablization efforts would first address the back portion of the Yeadon, which has been exposed to the elements since September 2003, when a contractor demolished the theater’s rear wall.
Previously, Yeadon officials had planned to demolish the theater, but due to an outcry from local preservationists, they’ve reversed course and are now working to save the theater.
“We’re still in the process of trying to get someone under contract,” Pickett said. “There’s concern, obviously, that the building is open. Unfortunately, there appears to be no alternative to that.”
The rest of the story can be read here.
Comments (2)
Just before Labor Day, 2003, Building Conservation International(BCI) convinced the council to delay demolition until a new use was decided upon for the building. Preservation specialists were sent to the site to guide the council on what to do.
Even so, the back wall was demolished. Stabilization is necessary immediately to mitigate further damage to the interior.
Please advise update. The Philadelphia Inquirer is very interested in a story.
Please contact Gersil N. Kay, BCI, at 215 568 0923 or FAX 215 568 4572.
A fine preservation architect was contacted September, 2003, but not still engaged to do a study for recyling recommendations. The Pennsylvania Museum & Historic Commission was also not contacted. There seem to be serious administrative delays that have not even put a tarpaulin covering the open rear wall that was demolished. Estimates for funding can be made once suggested new uses for the property are decided.
In the meantime, the $100,000 obtained for demolition ought to be used for more positive action.
Many knowledgeable groups are willing and anxious to help reuse this 1000-seat Art Deco treasure to revive the neighborhood.
Gersil N. Kay, Building Conservation International