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Syracuse officials are set to discuss the future of the former Maria Regina College site today, following a significant fire that began on Friday night (March 21). The fire, which took over 24 hours to control, caused extensive damage to the historic building, including the destruction of most of the roof. Firefighters remain on site, conducting inspections every two hours to ensure the fire does not reignite.
The building, located on Court Street, was once home to the Sisters of Saint Francis and served as part of Maria Regina College, a Catholic junior college for women. It has been vacant for years despite plans to develop it into apartments. Vandals have repeatedly targeted the site, leading to thefts and previous fires.
The fire has left the community in mourning. Syracuse Common Councilor Marty Nave expressed his sorrow, saying to CNY Central, "It's very regrettable to see this happen. It's heartbreaking." Sister Norise Kaizer, who witnessed the fire, likened it to the Notre Dame fire, emphasizing the building's significance to the community.
Developer Mark Congel, who owns the property, had plans to invest $100 million into the site. However, the fire has cast uncertainty over these plans. City officials, including Mayor Ben Walsh, will brief the public on the next steps for the site.
As the community reflects on the loss, Sister Norise remains hopeful for the future, stating, "It's time for something else. And only the future will let us know what it is."