State and local officials gathered Monday to observe the ongoing demolition of the former Martin Shirt Factory and Abattoir Building, a long-standing eyesore at the corner of East Poplar and South White streets.
On hand for the visit were Senator Dave Argall, Representative Dane Watro, Schuylkill County Commissioners Gary Hess and Larry Padora, along with Shenandoah Borough Council members Joe Boris, Diane Korenda, Mike Uholik, Joseph Gawrylik, and Borough Treasurer/Secretary Mike Cadau.
The massive brick structure, once a hub of local industry, had been dormant for decades. After years of neglect, sections of the building began collapsing last summer, prompting urgent action. Demolition work commenced two weeks ago, with funding provided through state grants. According to borough officials, the cost of the project exceeded $100,000.
Senator Argall emphasized the importance of addressing blight in communities like Shenandoah. “Blight affects us all – it lowers our property values, it strains the real estate market, it hurts our schools, it breeds crime, and it poses a serious threat to our safety and well-being,” said Argall. “Now that this vacant eyesore is demolished, the borough can begin returning the property to productive use.”
The Shenandoah Borough Council expressed relief that the hazardous building was finally coming down but noted that the plans for site remain undecided.
