POUGHKEEPSIE –   The building, with four apartments, was reported as being partially collapsed on Thursday morning, bringing City of Poughkeepsie firefighters and building department officials to the scene.

All of the residents in 11 North Hamilton Street were evacuated from the unstable building, and tenants of the multi-family dwelling next door were evacuated because it was in the collapse zone, should the damaged house begin to crumble.

The three-story brick house at 11 North Hamilton Street, built in 1900, is owned by Lester Runza, who owns several rental properties in Poughkeepsie, according to property records.  Despite evidence that brickwork has been done to the house in recent years, city records indicate that no building permits have been issued for the address over the past several years.

Officials said a visual inspection indicated the collapse likely occurred before it was reported, and someone may have unsuccessfully attempted to shore up the damaged side.

The city’s building department deemed the house unsafe and flagged it for demolition. Central Hudson disconnected gas and electric service Thursday afternoon, and the area was cleared for demolition work.  Demolition crews from Dutchess Landworks arrived Thursday night with heavy equipment, including an excavator and dump trucks. Work began around 8 p.m. and was expected to continue late into the night. North Hamilton Street was closed between Main and Mill streets for safety.
During the overnight, the demolition crew leveled the building and filled approximately 20 rolloff containers with the debris that was hauled away.  The remaining rubble is expected to be hauled away on Saturday, after the workers return to the premises.


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