2008-08-20 19:45:32 - Historic Tacoma recently coordinated an effort to salvage parts of a 1916 bungalow slated for demolition. The block is being cleared to make way for a surface parking lot near Tacoma's St. Joseph Hospital. The initial work consisted of removing interior doors, trim, cabinets, and lighting hardware.

"We would have preferred to save the entire structure by moving the house, but due to the condition of the house and the short time-frame, that was not a realistic option," stated Historic Tacoma co-founder and project coordinator, Morgan Alexander.

Bids are being reviewed to completely disassemble the house, along with two other structures, and re-use building components and materials. The combination of increasing wood prices and a greater awareness of recycling opportunities makes it practical to salvage old growth timber featured in many older homes.

This demonstration project is part of Historic Tacoma's efforts to encourage deconstruction to decrease

landfill waste and re-use sustainable building materials. Historic Tacoma is working with City Council members and staff to explore policies encouraging the adaptive re-use of historic structures and alternatives to demolition.

If you would like to view or purchase parts salvaged from this and other houses, visit the Metropolitan Development Council's ReHarvest Center at 1113 St. Paul Ave., located in the old Ball Brass building across the Murray Morgan bridge; call 253-531-5845 for directions/hours.

If you know of a historic structure slated for demolition, contact info@historictacoma.net

About Historic Tacoma -
Historic Tacoma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We are dedicated to preserving Tacoma's architectural legacy through education and advocacy. Our goals are to: Enhance Tacoma's built environment -- Preserve Tacoma's architectural heritage -- Educate and inform the community -- Conserve sustainable resources.