Demolition vs. Renovation

The county has used a figure of a $2.3 million rehabilitation cost to justify the demolition of the building. However, a coalition of architects, preservationists, local representatives, and contractors have determined the building is structurally sound and the rehabilitation of the entire building would require less than $1.5 million by eliminating unnecessary project components and modifying the approach to its renovation.

At $255/square foot, this compares very favorably to a typical $370/square foot cost for new public construction projects. Renovation, therefore, is the most cost-effective and greenest option, providing more space for less cost, removing the carbon and landfill waste created by both demolition and new construction, and offering a more community-centered, heritage-rich space for Westport and Essex County youth.

Renovation of the entire CCE building will help restore the Fairgrounds as the center of agricultural activity for Essex County. Preserving the structure would also help celebrate and highlight the Essex County Fairground’s biggest asset – the beauty and picturesque character of its rare, iconic late 19th and early 20th century buildings.

Furthermore, the County hopes to secure federal earmark funding to construct the new building.  However, this funding could also be used to renovate the existing building, a far better use of the money. The CCE building’s potential for restoration and further use proves that there are feasible and prudent alternatives to its demolition.