Federal officials could take up to six months to complete an investigation of the collapse of New Canaan's historic Maples Inn. "We are in fact-finding mode," Robert Kowalski of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration said Thursday. "Once we have all the information ... if there are citations warranted, they will be issued. But it's too early in the investigation."
Robert Kowalski, director of OSHA's Bridgeport area office, said the agency has six months from the date of an incident to complete an investigation.
High winds are believed to have toppled the historic structure, which dates to 1876. The inn is located on Oenoke Ridge Road. Tom Kennedy, co-owner of the inn with Andy Glazer, said they expect to continue with their plans to build luxury apartments on the site, though they will have to start all over with new materials.
When the mishap occurred Thursday, work had been underway for six months to preserve the frame of the old building because of its historical significance. Six workers were on the property at the time, but no one was injured.
Brian Platz, the town's chief building official, said the owners will need to get a demolition permit if they want to raze the fallen structure, though he said he might issue one himself. Platz said the building department will not take any action until OSHA and the John Glover Agency of Norwalk, the owner's insurance company, have finished their investigations and officially determine what should happen at the site. "The town has no dog in this fight," Platz said.
The property owners will need to revise the current building permit if the rest of the building is demolished, Platz said.
Click here to follow Daily Voice and receive free news updates.
