Demolition begins on historic church in Watervliet

WATERVLIET, N.Y. - Voices of a Citizens for St. Patrick's group have been heard outside the church and in court during the past few months, but as demolition of the church began Saturday, reality set in for many.

"It's kind of been sitting there sad for a while," said Donavan Kuber, of Watervliet.

Its demolition has also saddened the Citizens for St. Patrick's group who have been fighting to save the building, but Saturday crews began tearing it down.

"I'm sorry for their loss, but sometimes change is necessary and change is good," said Kuber.

Although Kuber admits he does often miss the sound of the bell, he is ready for the change.

"It's a positive reinforcement that Watervliet is new and up and coming and the future is here," said Kuber.

As a Price Chopper is set to take over the space, the new business on 19th street is giving some residents a glimpse of what happened in the past to create this kind of a future.

"I think the demographics changed. People moved out of the city. I just don't think they have the population around to support the churches. The old Price Chopper is really run down, so it might help the area," said George Hupe of Bob's Diner.

As demolition is completed during the next few weeks, the historic church will no longer be the tallest point in the city.

See the original post here:
Demolition begins on historic church in Watervliet