The Norristown Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB) recently denied a demolition application for the vacant Montgomery County prison on Airy Street, but the motion included an opportunity for “compromise” with the county. County commissioners took note of continued public opposition and have reversed their position on the demolition of the former prison. According to County Commissioner Jamila H. Winder, “We’ve heard the people of Norristown and the surrounding community. We want to ensure we’re doing our due diligence.” The county will solicit proposals for reuse of the historic site. The reversal came days before Norristown Municipal Council was set to review the HARB recommendation, which called for rejecting total demolition and reaching a compromise that saved the most historic portions of the site known as “the castle on the hill.” The county’s statement serves as a request to postpone review of the permit application for demolition.
Source: The Reporter; 10/26/2023 & 11/6/2023