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The debate about the future of the tall brick chimney above Pal Joey’s in downtown Batavia finally came to a close this week, as city officials approved its demolition after engineers warned the structure had become a serious safety concern.
The chimney — a historic but aging remnant of the former creamery site — was found to be deteriorating from the inside in ways not visible from the street.
Here’s what to know:
Engineers called the top 25 feet “severely eroded.” A structural report documented deep interior cracks, failing mortar, and rusted beams throughout the upper section of the chimney, with staff warning that the structure could no longer be considered sound.
Preservation experts recommended partial removal. The Historic Preservation Commission and the Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley advised leaving a small remnant of the chimney, but City Council voted to demolish it completely.
There were serious safety concerns. Several officials pointed to the risks of postponing action, citing the engineer’s findings and the liability of leaving a 110-foot unstable structure in place.
Batavia leaders acknowledged the chimney’s history and presence on the skyline, but ultimately agreed that taking it down was the safest and most practical path forward.
Read more about the chimney demolition project.
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