Emergency repairs of a condemned church are getting underway in New London. It’s now prompting roads closures in the area.
And while people understand the safety concerns with the building, the detours are going to affect traffic and businesses in the area.
On Monday, crews put up fencing around the Second Congregational Church in New London.
The city recently condemned the building and is planning repairs to the steeple.
“With the safety concern, I mean, obviously as tall as it is, yeah, it’s good that they’re getting on it,” David Piacenza, of New London, said.
The mayor said inspections found flaws in the steeple, though they can’t say when or if a collapse might take place.
And he says so far, the owner – Engaging Heaven Ministries – has failed to do the needed repairs.
“We’re left with very little choices as to what we’re doing. We can’t jeopardize the public safety,” Mayor Michael Passeoro (D – New London) said.
Engaging Heaven also used to own the First Congregational Church that collapsed almost two years ago.
Now as the city races to fix the church, police have shut down several roads and the busy intersection of Broad and Hempstead streets.
“It’s a stress for us just because, you know, we have to pay rent, employ and plus, you know, tax and light, everything,” Syed Haider, of H&H Family Mart, said.
At the H&H Family Mart, the owner is concerned about how the closures will affect foot and car traffic by his business.
At Fisher Florist, on day one of the road changes, the owner said his shop was empty when we stopped by. They’re normally busy during Thanksgiving week.
“I’m at a loss for words. This time of year counts for 35% of my business this time of year is walk in,” George Fisher, Fisher Florist owner, said. “It’s concerning. But I can’t blame anybody because they have to go for safety.”
The mayor said they’re trying to minimize the impact of the project, which should last six weeks.
We’ve been reaching out to Engaging Heaven for comment, but have not yet heard back.
