LACKAWANNA, N.Y. — 2 On Your Side got an update on Wednesday for the plans to build a new City Hall in Lackawanna.
The new City Hall will replace the orange building on stilts along Ridge Road. That building will be demolished and used for green space and additional parking.
At Wednesday's press conference and groundbreaking ceremony, the senior project manager for the new Lackawanna City Hall described what it will be like inside the redesigned Knights of Columbus building with a new large addition.
"They'll first be greeted at the new main entrance, which is a fully glass surround boasting a comfortable relaxing environment with naturally lit conditions, natural stone wall, and vaulted ceilings. The entrance will also exhibit curated historic images highlighting the city's proud history," said Jason Havens, CPL, Senior Project Manager.
Staff will move into the new building first, then the old orange building will come down. The demolition process is phase two.
"The extension building is beyond repair, unsafe, and an eyesore, and the residents and businesses of the City of Lackawanna deserve so much better," Lackawanna Mayor Annette Iafallo said. "With support from the City Council, we are undertaking this transformational project to create a modern, functional, and safe City Hall our community can be proud of for decades to come."
The third and final phase includes restoring the entry way and facade of the original City Hall behind the extension building. That space will continue to be used by police and city court.
"This project will represent a total investment of approximately $18.5 million, the largest city-led development initiative in Lackawanna's 115 year history," Iafallo said.
At the end of the press conference, Mayor Iafallo was asked if there's anything she will miss about the old orange building.
"Nothing. Nothing. It served its purpose and this will continue to serve the needs of the city," Iafallo said.
The project is expected to take 15 to 18 months to finish construction. The new City Hall will sit at 2838 South Park Avenue.