Home demolition makes way for new playground at St. Peter's R.C. School

Students at St. Peter's R.C. School will have a welcome addition when they start the school year next fall: A new playground. 

Last spring, St. Peter's R.C. Church purchased 625 Onondaga St., the property directly behind the school and next to the parking lot. With students observing from a safe distance (pictured), the home was recently demolished to make way for a new playground.

American Environmental & Remediation Corp., led by Lewiston owners Harold and Pam Hibbard, generously donated the demolition services and leveling of the ground. 

Going forward, the school will form a committee in January to research the best design options. Officials plan to hold a groundbreaking ceremony with students before the end of the school year, with construction slated to begin in summer 2016. 

"It's been a longstanding hope of the school to have a playground for the kids," said the Rev. Msgr. David LiPuma, pastor of the parish. "We heard about the property and were able to purchase it. The owner was renting it out and was ready to sell. We were in the right place at the right time. Now our children will have a safe and beautiful place to play and get exercise." 

Through support from parishioners and community members, the school has raised more than $80,000 to fund the playground construction.