ACA director vows facility will reopen

The Press & Sun-Bulletin reported that the American Civic Association board members have decided "overwhelmingly" to reopen the building that nearly two weeks ago was the site of mass murder.

"Our return is not a question of if, but when," said the organization's executive director, Andrew Baranoski.

Thirteen people - 11 immigrants taking an English class, their teacher and a caseworker - were gunned down April 3 at the American Civic Association building at 131 Front St. The gunman, Jiverly A. Wong, 41, walked into the brick structure around 10:30 a.m., wounding four others and killing himself before police arrived.

The offices are closed to the public while repairs and modifications are made to the building, Baranoski said. Security upgrades will be among the changes considered, though details are still being discussed, he said.

The gunman sprayed 98 shots in the building's lobby and a classroom in just over one minute, according to police. At least one bullet hole in a front window is still visible from the outside.
There is no timeframe for the ACA to reopen. The organization hopes this week to select an alternative site to house client services until the building is ready to reopen. Read more here.