Efforts continue to prepare to repair and rebuild Temple Israel in Vestal.

The temple on Deerfield Road sustained extensive damage when a 40-foot by 40-foot section of roof collapsed on December 15. There were no injuries.

Bob Joseph/WNBF News
Bob Joseph/WNBF News
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Debris from the roof broke through a floor and fell into a basement. The collapse is believed to have been caused by the heavy weight of snow, ice and water on the roof.

Items inside the building were removed shortly after the incident and moved to a secure warehouse. Initial remediation work has been finished.

Crews this week have removed asbestos from the damaged area ahead of demolition of damaged portions of the building.

An update provided by Temple Israel president Jason Weinstein says water-damaged sections of basement walls already have been removed.

Temple leaders and members are meeting regularly to develop a rebuilding plan.

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