Pennsylvania’s Bethlehem Area School District directors reached a decision on Monday: the old Broughal Middle School will be demolished, despite the offer of a local developer to purchase the asbestos-laden property. Developer Abraham Atiyeh made a last minute offer to purchase the Broughal School, and many locals wanted to save the building, which despite having asbestos issues is considered to be a building of historic and aesthetic merit. However, the bid made for the property was called ”woefully inadequate”. Board Vice President Judith Dexter said Atiyeh offered about $800,000 for the property.
Some Bethlehem residents are happy to see the school go. It will be replaced by new athletic fields. ”It’s been going on for a long time,” said Emma Marrero, a former Broughal student. ”The field is invaluable –– it’s time for a decision.”
The asbestos problem at the school would be costly to remedy. According to officials, the asbestos abatement process would cost the school district $389,000. The process is expensive, as many safety measures must be taken to prevent the release of asbestos, which is linked to mesothelioma and lung cancer. The district could not afford to entertain Atiyeh’s offer. The school district would stand to lose nearly $1.8 million if the demolition project was canceled.
Two voices that spoke in favor of demolition were Mr. Stephen Antalics and 12-year old Raymond Pacheco. ”There’s no concern for preservation of anything of historic value,” said Antalics. ”You’re young, you want to play…but you will want to feel proud you’re a resident of South Side.”
”I’m talking from my heart,” said Pacheco. ”I express my feelings during sports. I need a field to do what I do.”