Former Pilgrim Bank to be demolished

A familiar landmark in downtown Pittsburg is set to disappear this summer. Pittsburg City Council voted July 13 to approve a demolition permit for the old Pilgrim Bank building at 237 Jefferson Street.

The building was first constructed in the 1970s, but has been out of use since the Pilgrim company built its new location on East Marshall Street just across from the original. Jerry Webster, president of Pilgrim Bank, said the company has ideas that will give the area back to the community though architectural plans have yet to be finalized.

“We want to complement Witness Park and do a heavily landscaped area,” Mr. Webster said. “We're getting some ideas from architects and looking at different design plans.”

Because the area the building occupies is at the entrance to downtown Pittsburg, Mr. Webster said special care is being taken to ensure whatever happens at the location will be a source of pride for residents.

“We'd like to see it become a destination – a gathering place for the city,” he said. “We want to take the lot and beautify downtown.”

Demolition on the old bank building is set to begin within 30 days. The lot forms a triangle with the new Pilgrim Bank building and Witness Park. “The public was really receptive to our new building. We are very happy in it and very proud of it,” Mr. Webster said. “That lot will now be a place for residents and visitors to gather and enjoy. It'll be a nice statement for the community.”

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Story and photo by Tori Lyle