Wessington Springs Area Chamber and Development, City Raze Vacant Main Street Building
The plan for demolishing an unsafe eyesore on Main Street came to fruition Monday as heavy equipment rolled into town and took down a longtime vacant building in the heart of the business district.
As part of a combined effort between the Wessington Springs Chamber and Development (WSACD) and City of Wessington Springs, Feistner Gravel and Excavation’s demolition crew was hired to execute the precision job, which was funded by a $5000 Heartland Consumer Power District grant and $2,500 from the city.
“We are excited to finally see this important step completed, paving the way for a new business opportunity in a prime location on Main Street,” said Loree Gaikowski, WSACD Director. “Our next steps include backfilling the large lot and listing the property for sale.”
Gaikowski explained that the project has been months in the making. WSACD had an asbestos study completed and found the material to only be in the floor of the building, which was gifted to WSACD by the former owner, Casey Bridgman.
“Since the asbestos was in the floor only, the crew was able to thoroughly wet down the interior of the building before efficiently taking care of demolition and hauling it away,” she said.
The building has a storied history, having housed multiple businesses over the years. According to Jerauld County Museum files, previous businesses located in the space included:
Ernest H. Wood’s family store (1901)
Palmer Wickre Hatchery (1944 to 1967)
A TV clinic occupied the space (1969)
Bernie Feterl’s barber shop (1970-1974)
South Gulch Western Wear owned by Monte Linafelter (1976 to 1979)
Heidepriem, Bridgman & Nipe opened their attorney office after purchasing the building from Monte Linafelter (1981)
“This building was not safe and was an eyesore on Main Street,” Gaikowski added. “This is an excellent opportunity to elevate our business district and community.”
A demolition progress pictorial can be found in this week’s print and e-issue on PAGE THREE
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