Demolition Set to Begin at Mount Manresa

Despite protests and pleas to save it, demolition will soon begin at an historic Jesuit retreat center on Staten Island.

The Committee to Save Mount Manresa says homeowners in the area have received letters stating that work is set to begin, tearing down buildings on the 15-acre site.

The letter says Expedite Demo Inc. has been issued permits, and the demolition should take about two or four weeks.

The property houses an old water tower, a gate from the 1860s and a 1920s-era chapel and grotto.

A restraining order against the developers was rescinded back in April.

Some area residents have expressed health concerns regarding the demolition, specifically about asbestos and lead in the buildings.

Those who'd like to save the property say it qualifies for historic preservation, but the city's Landmarks Preservation Commission denied it any protection.

It's expected that townhouses will be built on the site.

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Demolition Set to Begin at Mount Manresa