To the Editor:

Recent headlines announcing the plans for the demolition of the Dr. Crounse House outside of Altamont and the Governor’s Motor Inn in Guilderland are both missing a golden opportunity that should be considered: salvage.

Neither plan discusses the possibility of salvaging either the contents or architectural components of the buildings. The Crounse House is of significant historic importance. Institutions like the Historic Albany Foundation, which runs an architectural salvage warehouse, should be contacted to try and save portions of the building.

Similarly, recent photos of the interior of the Governor’s Inn show many furnishings, most still in good condition, slated to be demolished along with the building. At a time when people are struggling, groups like Habitat for Humanity could use all these furnishings or sell them at their Re-Store.

At the very least, it would reduce the amount of material destined for the landfill. Why isn’t salvage being incorporated into the plans for demolition?

Ryan Caruso

Altamont