On Oct. 3, 2023, a fire destroyed Liberty Pizza and all other businesses located at 116-118 Main St. Now, an “Opening Soon” sign hangs in the window, bringing hope to the many who anticipate the restaurant’s reopening.
The rebuilding process has been long and slow, according to Building Commissioner Nate Maltinsky.
“We try to nurture them and move them along in the process,” he explained. “The drywall and the hood system have just been put up and now the focus is on inside renovations.”
The public can expect a very similar footprint to the former restaurant. There will be a few changes, including a cathedral ceiling and placement of the restrooms, counter and kitchen and ovens area.
The former building featured a convenience store, an auto body shop and a cleaners in addition to the pizza restaurant.
Building Inspector Tom Zuppa explained that the space that once housed the auto body shop will now be split into two separate units, providing the potential for five businesses to now occupy the space.
“There is the possibility for the convenience store to return to this building as well,” Zuppa said. “The cleaners may also return and use this Main Street space as a satellite store.”
While the restaurant once had a total seating capacity for 26, the new restaurant will have an 18-person capacity.
When asked when the actual business might reopen, Maltinsky and Zuppa agreed that the construction was moving along well and that the public realistically could look forward to an opening by the end of the year.
“The rough electrical, plumbing and framing are in place,” said Zuppa.
The building’s owner could not be reached for comment.
