A preservation battle is brewing in Orange County and stirring up national interest. The subject is the Orange County Government Center (Bing aerial), hated by some, loved by others. Its Modernist boxy look contrasts with the pre-Revolutionary village of Goshen’s 19th century homes and the harness racing track, sites generally considered more historically acceptable by the population at large. But as unloved as Modernist buildings might be to some people, they are unique and interesting structures and ought not all be dismissed outright.
Built in 1967, the Government Center is nearing the accepted 50-year benchmark to be considered for most historic registries. As buildings of that period approach the 50-year mark, a wave of interest in their preservation has developed just as some of these buildings are being condemned.
Cited for leaky roofs, the building was closed in the fall of 2011 after its basement flooded. The roof problems could be attributed as much if not entirely to deferred maintenance and not to design imperfections. The same problems might well arise in a new building. As for the flooded basement, considered the last straw by the county executive, it almost seems like it was an event that was awaited for in order to manufacture an excuse to leave the building. Just about every building in the Hudson Valley it seems was flooded by Hurricane Irene last year. Not all had to be torn down for flooded basements.