Push To Save Dansbury Depot

The fate of the Dansbury Depot train station in Monroe County could be changing. The local landmark received a huge boost of support Saturday.

The Depot's history traces back to 1864.

Brian Fairfield said that the train station is the thing that has really put this town on the map. He adds that without the train, Monroe County wouldn't be what it is today.

But a fire in October not only destroyed the station's converted restaurant, but put the depot in line with the wrecking ball.

An informal rally headed by local activist Teri VanBritsom tried to garner donations and support. VanBrtisom recently filed an injunction delaying the developers planned destruction of East Stroudsburg building.

The "Save the Dansbury Depot" group, which has over 3,000 members on Facebook, was formed about a week ago. Linda Lieberman says it already has developers and architects set that would renovate and save the old station.

A court order posted at the site says the group has until Tuesday at noon to pay the county $50,000 for a temporary reprieve. If not, the developer could come in within the next minute and tear the place down.

Pocono Raceway owner Dr. Joseph Mattiloi was a surprise show, with an even more surprising offer. He says he'll donate $500,000 to keep the depot intact.

Mattioli says he has tried to buy the depot before, and would donate the money to the borough.

Channel 69 News's efforts to contact the depots owner went unanswered, but VanBritsom says she has the $50,000 needed for the delay couple that with Mattioli's pledge, and the depot's future could be gaining steam.