In a surprising reversal, the Montgomery County Commissioners have announced that they will solicit proposals to reuse parts of the Norristown Airy Street Prison, writes MEDIANEWS Group for The Times Herald.
While the Montgomery County Commissioners back in August appeared adamant about demolishing the historic site, they are changing course amid growing public opposition.
“After listening to the people of Norristown, community organizations, and preservationists, the county will issue a request for information that solicits proposals seeking to reuse a portion of the space without utilizing county funds,” a prepared statement said.
Commissioner Jamila H. Winder in a separate statement said, “We’ve heard the people of Norristown and the surrounding community. We want to ensure we’re doing our due diligence.”
The request for information will focus on development plans for the potential reuse of the oldest section of the prison building and/or the façade.
Preservationists and community members are most concerned about preserving the portion of the prison referred to as “the castle on the hill” which was built in 1851 and designed by architect Napoleon LeBrun.
Any proposal must not rely on the use of county tax dollars or prohibit the future development needs of the borough or the county.
Read more about the reversal of the Montgomery County Commissioners on the Norristown Airy Street Prison in The Times Herald.
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