Demolition to Begin on Former Temple in Carbondale

A problem property in the city of Carbondale is about to have a date with the wrecking ball.

City leaders say demolition is about to begin on the former Masonic Temple property on Salem Avenue.

Carm Galati's family has run a barber shop on Salem Avenue in Carbondale since 1917.

Galati is happy to hear the old Masonic Temple property will soon be coming down.

"It's long overdue. Somebody is going to get hurt over there if they leave it standing much longer," Galati said.

From a tarp and netting that no longer cover the top floor to weeds that have overtaken the sidewalk, city officials say they just received the deed to the property on Friday and are finalizing construction contracts.

Demolition crews should be at the site within the next week or two.

"At this point it seems to be dangerous and an eyesore," John Custard of Carbondale said.

City officials say the building has been a problem for the last decade.

The first problems began to surface in 2004 but got worse in 2006 when pieces of the building's faade crashed down onto the sidewalk below.

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Demolition to Begin on Former Temple in Carbondale