Oct 2, 2012 2 min read

In recent years, the former YWCA building on West Maiden Street in Washington has been both a feast for the eyes and an eyesore.

An imposing example of Elizabeth Revival architecture, it has been sitting empty since it closed 10 years ago, a bittersweet remnant of the days when Washington was at its industrial zenith and its downtown was more vibrant.

But the Tri-County Patriots for Independent Living has stepped forward with an ambitious, $7 million proposal to renovate the facility and bring it into the 21st century. They envision the building being opened to the community once again, with an Internet cafe, wellness center and multipurpose rooms being primary draws.

The cash to bring this to fruition will not, pardon the cliche, grow on trees. Tri-County Patriots is hoping to finance the endeavor through a mix of gifts, grants, loans, tax credits and local share dollars from the Meadows Racetrack & Casino. The organization is planning an Oct. 25 breakfast at the Doubletree Hotel in North Strabane Township to ignite interest and awareness.

Whether you have fond memories of the YWCA in its heyday or would like to see downtown Washington become a more interesting and exciting place, this is a cause you should get behind. Seeing that site come alive again would indeed be a sight for sore eyes.