Old IBM Endicott Buildings May Be Demolished

A push to demolish three large buildings once used by IBM at its Endicott manufacturing complex is moving forward.

Village Mayor John Bertoni said the abandoned structures east of McKinley Avenue are a "real big eyesore" as people enter Endicott on North Street.

Bertoni said he believes it's "time to wave the white flag" and have the unused buildings removed.

A Department of Environmental Conservation representative has indicated the agency "would support and encourage" a move by Huron Real Estate Associates to demolish the structures.

Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo in the past has suggested tearing down the buildings might be appropriate if it would provide access to areas contaminated by chemicals.

The DEC representative said not much contamination is believed to exist under the buildings.

Mayor Bertoni said given the deterioration of the unused buildings, he believes the "only alternative is to tear them down."

Bertoni is hoping some state economic development funds might be allocated for removing the structures and preparing the property for future use.

The mayor said he would like to see redevelopment efforts focused on former IBM sites and the nearby property once occupied by the Endicott Forging operation.

Huron Real Estate Associates president Christopher Pelto was not available Wednesday   afternoon to discuss plans for the unused IBM buildings.

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