NEWARK, Ohio — A 124-year-old Newark building that caught fire earlier this year is set to be demolished.
The Avalon Apartment building in Downtown Newark caught fire on March 23, displacing 24 people. LEADS, a community and emergency services organization, announced Tuesday that the building would be demolished.
The historic three-story building, located at 86 West Main St., was on fire for more than two hours before crews were able to put it out.
No injuries were reported.
The Avalon was built in 1900 and originally housed shops, offices and apartments, according to LEADS. It was condemned in 1998 by the Newark City Health Department due to its poor condition.
The future of the building was uncertain for many years until LEADS obtained Low-Income Housing Tax Credits. The building was salvaged and converted into 20 senior apartments.
In a release, LEADS says the staff and board of trustees debated the decision for several months.
“As much as we want to save this beautiful, historic building, it unfortunately is not economically feasible,” says Nathan Keirns, chief executive officer of LEADS. “We are beyond thankful that all residents were evacuated safely and find comfort in knowing that the Avalon has served the community well for more than 100 years.”
LEADS plans to work with the demolition company to attempt to salvage the architectural pieces of the building.
Demolition will begin later this year after a contractor is chosen and necessary permits are obtained.
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