Reinhard Demolition Could Begin November 1

After numerous delays, the demolition of the vacant Reinhard School building on Northampton Street in Hellertown could begin Nov. 1, Borough Engineer Bryan Smith told members of Borough Council at their Oct. 3 meeting.

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Parts of the historic school--which has been vacant for about five years--are contaminated with asbestos, which will necessitate a careful dismantling of the structure.

Smith said that residents of the neighborhood that surrounds Reinhard will be notified of the demolition's start date in advance.

Parking in the area will be restricted and sidewalks will be closed during the demolition, which is expected to take approximately four weeks, he added.

Council President Phil Weber asked Borough Manager Cathy Kichline if the cost of the demolition has been affected by the delays in getting approval for the building to come down, but she confirmed that it has not.

Borough councilman Tom Rieger also highlighted the fact that a committee formed to study redevelopment options for the Reinhard site will meet for the first time at Borough Hall on Oct. 17 at 7pm.

The committee is seeking community input and the meeting is open to the public.

"Suggestions and such can be emailed to me for inclusion in (a) presentation," Rieger announced.

Rieger's email address is t.rieger@hellertownborough.org.