The current owners of the building, Richard Pollack and Robert & Libby Strong purchased the former Second Presbyterian Church in 2008, in hopes to create the building into a multi-purpose science area.

But, after meeting with a structural engineer, Pollack said that they determined that the building's structure is safe and does not need to be demolished.

"They determined that the trusses of the roof gave way as the result of a renovation project many years ago. For some reason just three of the trusses were modified," said Pollack.

The building, dates back to 1848, and is one of the oldest structures in Centre Wheeling.

With engineers giving the ok to reopen the road, fire officials aren't taking chances.

"We are able to re-open the road, but just in case we are going to create a safety zone by blocking off the sidewalk and bagging up the parking meters near the building," said Asst. Fire Chief Ed Geisel.

Pollack said he and the Strong's hope to meet with an architect first thing next week to discuss what needs to be done to preserve the building.

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