HAZLETON, PA — Demolition crews have begun tearing down a century-old historic church building in Luzerne County following severe fire damage sustained last year.
Heavy machinery was brought in to dismantle the former St. Paul's United Methodist Church structure located along West Green Street in downtown Hazleton.
The church originally closed its doors nearly 30 years ago and sat vacant for decades. In June of last year, the Downtown Hazleton Alliance for Progress acquired the property with long-term plans to restore and revitalize the historic site. However, just one month after the acquisition, a major fire swept through the structure, causing irreparable damage to the building's core framework.
Due to heavy equipment activity and falling debris, municipal officials have closed sections of West Green Street to vehicle traffic. Road closures and detours will remain in effect until demolition and site cleanup efforts are fully completed.
