Dameron site has potential

It's no North Shore, but the Dameron Building's fall brings opportunity

Published 9/17/98

The two-story Dameron Building can be considered both a jewel and an eyesore to the Point Park College community. When Point Park acquired the pink structure from National City Bank of Pennsylvania in the Spring of 1997, it meant that the college had a greater presence along Wood Street. The problem was that the presence was in the form of a dilapidated building laden with asbestos and other hazards, which caused it to be condemned.

The building was given as a gift, but it seems more like a hand-me-down. However, considering Point Park's small size and limited resources, one should never look at any donation with skepticism.

Point Park has finally arranged to demolish the building, which is a good idea. However, another challenge remains: What will be done with the extra space? Although the college says it is making a parking lot for Point Park vans out of the soon-to-be flattened terrain, The Globe would like to offer several suggestions of its own on what the extra space might be used for.

1. Build a gymnasium, or a reasonable facsimile, for the Point Park athletes. It doesn't have to be a PNC Park or Jacobs Field, but a school-owned spot to practice for the women's volleyball, and men's and women's basketball teams will be more convenient for the players, who won't have to travel to other locales, such as high schools and YMCAs, to get the daily practice in.

2. If a lot has to be built, create a special parking space or two on the Dameron site for a faculty member or administrator who has achieved considerable success in their field; an "employee of the month reward," if you will. For example, if a professor wins a prestigious award, give them the preferred parking spot for a while.

3. Construct a new fine, applied and performing arts studio. Sure FAPA already has the Playhouse to work with, but one afternoon of driving in Oakland makes a simple walk down the block look like a God-given gift. The second-floor student lounge could resume being a lounge instead of a studio, and the dancers can go practice their routines without having every passerby look in at them.

4. How about a bona fide student union? Build a two- or three-story structure and throw in a few video games, the Rec Center pool tables and a pizza joint (and maybe even a cable-enabled TV or two), and students will rejoice.

Each of these suggestions will be costly, and construction will, in all likelihood, conclude years down the road. But maybe in the long run, perhaps taking the extra time, money and effort to spruce up Point Park's image will enhance the college more than just installing another stoic, concrete lot.

Cartoon by Jamie Jones.

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