Politics & Government

Potential Demolition of Filmet Building in Swissvale

The Kenmawr Bridge reconstruction project may switch into PennDOT's hands, and other things to be discussed at Wednesday's Swissvale Council meeting.

Another blighted building may be on the chopping block in Swissvale Borough. 

Swissvale council is discussing using a potential Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to demolish the Filmet Building, which has been in a state of disrepair for years. 

"We can only hope that this will come through, because that building is going to collapse," said Council President David Petrarca at last week's agenda setting meeting. 

"Within the year," added Fire Chief Clyde Wilhelm. 

The Kenmawr Bridge reconstruction project may soon be in PennDOT's hands. Council will vote on a letter of agreement allowing PennDOT to take over the bridge project at their August 7 meeting.

"It's long overdue," said Director of Public Works Carmine Russo.  

The bridge, which connects Swissvale and Rankin, has been a point of contention in the past, shut down for some time after an inspection in 2011 and receiving weight restrictions detouring Port Authority bus routes earlier this year

"That sounds good because this thing is completely stalled," said Petrarca. 

Other things to look for at this week's meeting:

  • Swissvale received 5 bike racks to place around the borough. 
  • A letter of understanding between the Swissvale Police and Woodland Hills schools.
  • Memorial Park may see a revamp if a CDBG comes through. Changes could include paving the roadway and parking lot, replacing fencing and bringing back the basket ball hoops. 
  • Another CDBG could kick off phase 2 of the Commercial Revitalization Business District plan. 
  • Collingwood Playground might see new picnic benches and pavilions due to a potential CDBG. 
Check back with Patch for coverage of Wednesday night's meeting. 


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