Tearing down the Remington arms plant

Bridgeport, Conn. (WTNH) - Fire did serious damage to the old Remington Arms plant in Bridgeport last month and city officials say it's dangerous to allow it to remain standing. And some people couldn't be happier.

Fire and flame started the demolition, and now Bridgeport and the owners of the old Remington Arms Factory on Barnum Avenue plan to finish leveling it.

"I was hoping they'd do something to that building right away because it's hazardous," said Bonnie Blackwell.

She grew up in the neighborhood and at 63 years young she's seen a lot of changes.

"I hope that they can use that part of the land for something productive, progress," she said.

Lou Procaccini, a machine adjuster, remembers being very productive in this old arms manufacturer that dates back to the late 1800's. Driving to the demo site, lots of memories are coming up from his time at the factory which dates back to World War II.

"Oh, there are a lot of memories, you now," he said. "I met a few girlfriends here in fact (laughs)"

The city says it's too early to say what will replace the old factory, and Lou's old memories here, and they're not sure how long the demo process will take.

Most of the heavy lifting has being done in the center of the factory, but the long-term plan is to level the entire site.