Demolition sought for former Friendship House site in Lackawanna

Another symbol of what Lackawanna used to be may soon face a wrecking ball.

City officials are requesting $200,000 from Erie County to pay for demolition of the former Friendship House on Ridge Road and debate already has started about what should be built in its place.

The badly deteriorated structure was condemned in 2007 and has been a frequent target of looters and vandals over the years.

The building is beyond shot, which is too bad, said Mayor Geoffrey M. Szymanski. It was a great community center.

During its heyday, the building was a hub of activity in the citys 1st Ward, hosting an array of human services programs, a food pantry, a foster care program and a summer camp.

The City Council on Monday approved a request from Szymanski to raze the structure at 264 Ridge Road, which was home to the nonprofit Friendship House since the 1960s.

The former Bethlehem Steel Administration Building a deteriorated, but architecturally stunning landmark and symbol of Lackawannas former steel might was torn down last year amid protests from local preservationists. Friendship House wasnt nearly as iconic, but it still brings to mind images of better days in the city for some residents because it served as a community anchor for many years.

It was real popular. Theres no doubt about it, Szymanski said.

The nonprofit agency struggled financially for years after losing a federal sexual-discrimination lawsuit in 1997 that awarded $459,759 in damages to a former employee and eventually closed its doors.

At least one lawmaker already has his mind set on future use of the property.

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Demolition sought for former Friendship House site in Lackawanna