Letter to the editor: Hoping The River stays in New Kensington

On the corner of Freeport Road and Elizabeth Street in New Kensington stands an architectural beauty, commonly known as the Old Nurse’s Residence. Circa 1923 red bricks are punctuated by a row of stately arches I’ve admired since I was a kid.

For years, the vacant property was maintained, never finding the fate most urban buildings do when left uninhabited.

Around 2006, The River Church moved in. Its presence spoke to a specific need in our community. Revitalization was obvious on this corner that previously slumped without use.

The grounds of the church are regularly peppered with young people engaged in constructive play. Broken basketball hoops are routinely replaced. Nobody is turned away.

The people of this organization have transformed this patch of town into a hub of humanity, where kindness is available to all. They clothe folks in need. They intercede for those in crisis. People are married here, families are fortified here, children are encouraged here, shattered things are mended here.

That’s why I am saddened to learn that it has been made financially unfeasible for The River to stay in its current home. Originally gifted to its current deed owner, the new asking price for the building is prohibitive, regardless of The River’s significant contribution to our neighborhood.

The River’s people have resurrected this spot, championing a stabilizing presence in our town. If there’s no force actively working toward something positive here, it will likely become just the opposite.

To the owner, I ask, if it is within your capabilities, please let them stay; please help them stay.

Erin Burkett

New Kensington