Hour by hour, day by day, the historic landmark building at the corner of Peter and Mississaga streets in downtown Orillia is being demolished.
On Jan. 21, an early morning fire sparked a massive blaze that totally destroyed the 130-year-old building that housed several local businesses that were ruined. Nobody was injured.
A day later, demolition crews were mobilized to help clear away debris that would allow firefighters to put out hot spots that continued to smoulder inside the burned out structure.
On Thursday, firefighters were able to douse the final remnants of the blaze and turned the building over to owner Jeff Pitcher, who has vowed to build something "beautiful and meaningful" in its place — eventually.
But for now, Priestly Demolition is continuing the painstaking process of dismantling the building, taking care not to damage the buildings on either side.
A Brampton man has been charged with arson — disregard for human life. Brandon Costa will be in court Feb. 5 to answer the charges.
The city notes Mississaga Street and the intersection at Mississaga Street and Peter Street have reopened to vehicle access. However, there may be intermittent closures on Jan. 27 due to site work.
