RONCEVERTE W.Va. (WVDN) – Ronceverte bids farewell to a cherished landmark as the old theater building, a center of community life for decades, is torn down. The demolition marks the end of an era, leaving behind memories of countless gatherings and events held within its historic walls. The community now laments the loss of this beloved building, a poignant reminder of the changing landscape of Ronceverte.
Speaking about the building, Mayor Deena Pack said, “The City of Ronceverte tried diligently for several years to work with the private owner of the theater to remedy several dangerous conditions on the property that have created significant risks for Ronceverte citizens. Unfortunately, the owner was unresponsive and did not make any of the necessary repairs to the property. The City then applied for and received grant funding through a program administered by the West Virginia Department of Environment Protection. The program helps communities address the issue of abandoned and dilapidated structures. In order to receive funding for the removal of each dilapidated property, the City completed an extensive process through the WV DEP. The theater property remains privately owned. However, [the] City plans to honor John Norman, Sr., one of West Virginia’s African American architects, for his contributions to the City.”
