YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – After the announcement earlier in the week that the Realty Building in downtown Youngstown was set for demolition, a new effort has emerged to try and save the historic structure from being razed.
CityScape of Youngstown recently issued a news release presenting a three-pronged approach to potentially salvaging the building. The plan includes stabilizing the structure, reopening the downtown area, and seeking assistance at federal, state, and local levels.
Scott Schulick, Chairman of the Board of Youngstown CityScape, emphasized the importance of a thorough evaluation process in determining the next steps for the Realty Building. He has been a driving force behind the movement to save the building after it suffered severe damage in a natural gas explosion on May 28.
Schulick expressed the sentiment shared by many in the community that efforts must be made to stabilize the building to ensure public safety. The stabilization process is crucial for reopening the DoubleTree Hotel and allowing residents of the International Tower to return to their homes.
While the ultimate goal is to preserve the Realty Building, Schulick and other stakeholders understand that demolition may be the only option if experts deem it necessary. A meeting is scheduled to take place on Monday to discuss the potential paths forward.
Youngstown Councilman Julius Oliver revealed that a Cincinnati engineering firm has indicated that the Realty Tower can be stabilized, providing a glimmer of hope for those advocating to save the historic structure.
As the community grapples with the fate of the Realty Building, the collective effort to explore all possible avenues for its preservation showcases the commitment of Youngstown residents to their city’s heritage and architectural legacy. With ongoing discussions and evaluations, the future of the Realty Building hangs in the balance, awaiting a decision that will shape the downtown landscape for years to come.