WMVO Good Times Great Oldies
The historic Curtis Building on North Main Street sustained major damage during the March 13 windstorm, prompting Mount Vernon officials to pursue a condemnation order for the structure and two adjoining buildings. A large portion of the façade at 10–16 N. Main St. broke away in the high winds, exposing unstable brick and forcing the closure of the sidewalk and parking along the block.
Public Works Director Tom Hinkle said the façade is “deteriorating, unstable and at risk of collapse,” and removing only the damaged section could worsen structural issues. Because the Curtis Building is physically connected to 18–20 N. Main St. and 6–8 E. Chestnut St., the city will ask the Board of Property Maintenance Appeals on March 24 to approve condemnation of all three.
One residential tenant and a business will be relocated as the city prepares for potential demolition. Scaffolding and netting will be installed to stabilize the façade in the meantime.
Mayor Matthew Starr said the Curtis family’s legacy is significant in Mount Vernon’s history, but the building has deteriorated beyond repair. “Public safety, of course, always has to be our priority,” he said.