Razing of Slavin's may begin next week

MASSENA — The first steps in the planned demolition of two buildings at the former Slavin's furniture store could begin Monday.

Massena Village Administrator Everett E. Basford said village officials are still finalizing the contract details, ranging from paperwork issues related to bonding to a work schedule.

"It looks tentatively like they will start the asbestos abatement on the 13th," he said.

Village officials met at the site late last week with the contractors and subcontractors on the project.

"They will have 90 days to complete the work, but we expect it will be done in a much shorter time frame," Mr. Basford said. The contract includes a $1,000-a-day penalty for "nonperformance."

A portion of Water Street in front of the Slavin's building has been closed for several weeks after village officials expressed concern about the structural integrity of one of the buildings.

"There may be periods of time during the demolition when we may have to restrict traffic a little more in that area. They will need more of a perimeter when they take that building down," Mr. Basford said.

He said the owners of the building will have until the tax sale to retain possession of the site. They would be charged, however, for the work that is being done at the site.

Mr. Basford said the building at Main and Water streets will be retained. He said crews will be shoring up that building to make sure it is weather-tight after the neighboring structure is demolished.

The village recently awarded the contract for asbestos abatement and demolition to Richardson & Sons, Ogdensburg.