6.16.2026 Historical Commission

The Fall River Historical Commission held a meeting on June 16, 2026, primarily focused on the proposed demolition of the circa 1915 Central Police Station at 158 Bedford Street. The commission discussed the applicability of the city's 12-month demolition delay bylaw, which was bypassed due to the building being declared a public safety hazard by the building commissioner. The Preservation Society of Fall River opposed the demolition without adherence to the delay bylaw, requesting documentation to substantiate the emergency status. The building commissioner presented the case for demolition, citing extensive interior deterioration and public safety risks, and noted that the city council had allocated approximately $1.4 million for demolition. The commission voted to seek a legal opinion from corporate counsel to clarify their responsibilities and the validity of bypassing the delay bylaw. Additionally, the commission approved sending informational letters to real estate agents regarding properties in the 40C historic district and discussed ongoing preservation projects, including a $30,000 grant for the Bank Street Armory. No final vote on the demolition was recorded, but the meeting reflected significant concern over balancing historic preservation with public safety and fiscal responsibility.