Norwich State Hospital Series: Trust No One?

“Trust no one.”

It was a phrase used by Fox Mulder on The X-Files and seems to be the philosophy of the Preston Redevelopment Agency (PRA). 

This blogger wanted to capture the ongoing demolition of the historic Norwich State Hospital buildings and restoration of the Administration Building with his camera but didn't realize quite how difficult that would be.

A written request was submitted for a demolition schedule to Representative Tom Reynolds, who represents Connecticut’s 42nd District. He replied back stating that he would forward the request to PRA Chairman Sean Nugent for possible inclusion on a “media distribution list”. Reynolds admitted that the PRA has security concerns.

The Day and Norwich Bulletin seem to be on this list as they were contacted prior to the destruction of the Salmon Building. Both newspapers featured photos and stories. 

Despite Reynold’s assistance and the more recent leveling of the Awl Building, PRA failed to contact this blogger. 

The next two buildings to be demolished are the chapel and the theater which may be leveled with few, if any, onlookers or media outlets taking photos. 

While officials speak of security issues, most buildings are surrounded by signs warning of closed circuit television cameras. The site is protected by fencing, security, and large flood lights. Much more secure than it was under state ownership. 

PRA member John Harris told The Day that “if demolition of a specific building is announced, vandals appear instantly to strip it of whatever valuables remain.” 

How can we secure these historic buildings while giving the public the opportunity to watch the demolition? 

State and federal taxpayer dollars are being used to demolish the buildings and while PRA has invited the public to watch from the fence, they fail to give a day or time. It's like asking someone out on a date but not giving any other specifics. 

Additionally, the PRA is remaining silent about a proposed mixed-use proposal. Until it’s sold, Preston taxpayers are footing the legal bill and security for a site which is being used for fire and police training by local, state, and federal officials who pay no fees. 

Nugent told The Reminder that those opportunities will become fewer as buildings are taken down. 

There have been discussions of converting the Administration Building into a museum but there are no guarantees. 

I encourage the PRA to contact all Connecticut media outlets with a demolition schedule as well as provide copies of demolition photos taken by their members. 

PRA should provide reporters the opportunity to take guided tours of the Administration Building similar to the tour taken by Governor Dannel Malloy. 

The PRA should require any future developer to donate to a fund so that the Administration Building can continue to be restored and be transformed into a historical museum. 

Series Note: If you have taken photographs of the recent demolition of buildings at Norwich State Hospital, please submit them to corey_neil_sipe@yahoo.com for inclusion into this series.