Falk’s Market demolition gets under way

Demolition of the more than 100-year-old Falk's Market in downtown Plainville got under way April 5, as the north side of the building came down, along with the house behind the market at 8 East Bacon St.

The rest of the beloved, but long-dilapitated market is expected to come down starting on Monday, April 8.

"Today, the north side of the building was taken down. That's the addition that had suffered the most damage," said Jeff Kinney, who with his wife, Julie, bought the property late in 2011. "The reason that side came down first was because the roof had asbestos on it. That's being taken care of by a hazmat crew."

The house at 8 East Bacon, which the couple bought last year, was taken down to make way for parking for the building.

Kinney, who is famed as the creator of the "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" series, said via email "the big day" will be Monday (April 8), "when the main structure from Falk's is demolished."

"Demolition will likely be finished on Tuesday," he said.

It is hoped that the foundation of the new building, which borrows elements from the original building -- including a porch all along the front -- will be ready within the next few weeks.

"Framing will start to happen in the early summer," Kinney said. "We're targeting having the building operational late this year, but of course anything can happen."

Falk's demolition is a bittersweet one, both for the Kinneys and their fellow Plainville residents. The building was the site of many warm memories for long-time townies, who recall long-time owner, the late Merrill Falk, with fondness. Many have told of trips to the market for penny candy, and also stories of Falk's generous and kind manner as he often extended credit to those who didn't have quite enough and made sure townspeople were well supplied during times of emergency.

At the same time, many have said the buiding's time has long passed, seeing it as an eyesore and acknowledging the necessity of taking it down to make way for something new.

More:
Falk's Market demolition gets under way