Bunting House Update—Talks Continue Past 30-Day Demo Delay

The 30-day suspension to the demolition of the historical Bunting House came and went with the 5901 Ridge Ave. Victorian home still standing. At least in the near future, it should stay that way.

Both property owners Giovannone Construction, Inc. and neighborhood groups agreed to continue talks in the hopes of preserving the stately home and finding a financially acceptable plan, Roxborough Development Corporation Executive Director Bernard Guet and Central Roxborough Civic Association President Ed Hotham confirmed.

"An extension to the 30 day window was extended at our last meeting," Guet said in an email. "We are scheduled to meet again this week and hopefully we will have made some progress on a solution acceptable to all concerned."

Roxborough residents rallied around the 1890s property in September after learning property owners received city permission to demolish the home, formerly in the early 20th century.

Buzz from online petitions, news articles and protests caught the developers attention and they agreed to meet with stakeholders to discuss options. While the house's exterior appears spectacular, they argue its interior needs renovation. Additionally, financially suitable tenants are hard to come by, Patch previously reported.

Although the property seems temporarily salvaged some residents have recently raised concerns that fencing erected around the building is a precursor to the wrecking ball.

Guet said that's a theft deterrent.

"Yes, for the fence, somebody broke in all the houses and stole the copper, appliances and even some stones from the wall. Fencing is for scavenger control," he said.