TURNERS FALLS — Demolition on the Railroad Salvage Building was completed on Monday, finishing the project that had been expected to take about four days.
Montague Town Building Inspector David Jensen said the project was completed in about one day and the parts of the building that were a concern to the town came down easily.
He said the building no longer presents a danger beyond the fence line, but that what’s left of the building is still a concern.
Power Street, which has been closed since a fire burned out parts of the building on Dec. 31, will reopen this morning, Jensen said.
The building is not owned by the town, but last week town officials sought a court order to enter the property and tear down parts that were unstable and a potential public safety hazard. That court order was granted Thursday by a Franklin County Superior Court judge.
“We’re pleased with the ruling of the court, and that in fact the demolition was speedy, because as they started demolishing the walls, they fell like a house of cards, which was our concern,” Town Selectboard Chairman Rich Kulkewicz said.
Jensen said he appreciated that the town was willing to take care of the situation.
“It’s something the town shouldn’t have had to do, but was certainly willing to do it under the circumstances,” Jensen said.
Jensen said the demolition came in under cost estimates because it was an hourly pay rate and took less time than expected.
Reach Miranda Davis
at 413-772-0261 ext. 280
or mdavis@recorder.com.