It has come to our attention that there is some misinformation circulating with regards to the Reuben House,as the building is sometimes known, on the property of Cedar Lane Park, formerly the Kress Estate. This property has been in a state of disrepair for many years, and has been the subject of our attention as to how we could potentially restore it structurally and bring it back to its former beauty, with plans for a modern use.

Unfortunately, we have been advised by multiple restoration and building experts, as well as our own engineers and building inspector, that it is beyond saving, although it may be possible to save specific elements of it, such as the stone foundation, the stonework on the fireplace and chimney, and other salvageable building materials that may have antique value. We have also had the building tested for hazardous materials, the final phase of which was conducted earlier this year, and we are in the process of removing some of those materials as phase one of the overall remediation that needs to take place.

The work that is currently being done is to remove asbestos and debris from the house and property. We had also considered the possibility of offering the site to the Fire Department to use for training purposes, if it was in fact deemed by them to be safe, once the asbestos and debris was removed. However, we have been advised by hazardous materials specialists that this is not advisable at this stage. We will continue to keep the building boarded up, as it has been for many years per the Town’s building inspector, until such time as we can move towards phase two.

The Town has, and will continue to be, vigilant to ensure that any work done on the site or to the structure is done in accordance with all applicable laws, rules and regulations and to ensure the health and safety of the community and our staff.