The deteriorating American Legion building in Pittsburgh's Troy Hill neighborhood is set for demolition after a partial collapse occurred last Saturday morning. According to a WTAE report, crews arrived at the 1500 block of Hatteras Street following the collapse, which led city inspectors to condemn the structure on March 27 for safety concerns. Emergency demolition was deemed necessary after the building's back wall fell, and further assessment revealed significant structural damage.
A spokesperson from Mayor Ed Gainey's office stated that the Department of Licenses and Inspections found the second-floor rear of the building had collapsed, and the rear roof was sagging substantially. The city initially scheduled the demolition yesterday to prevent any potential harm to the public. However, as of the most recent updates, physical demolition has not commenced, and the project is currently open for bidding. Wreckcrew Demilation LLC was expected to complete the demolition, which is pending permit approval.
Meanwhile, residents have expressed various sentiments about the building's impending demolition. Rege Stephens, who has lived across from the Legion for 65 years, shared a mix of relief and sadness with CBS News. He recounted his efforts in maintaining the grounds and the building's monument, emphasizing the Legion's historical significance and community collaboration in bygone eras. Another local, Tom Hart, pointed out a broader trend of declining membership in service and fraternity organizations, leading to their closures and disrepair.
