The developer constructing a massive condominium building and required to restore the Carnovsky Bakery building vows to rebuild the heritage building after it collapsed Christmas morning.

“IN8 Developments is deeply saddened by the collapse of this extremely rare heritage building that dates back to the 1830s,” Darryl Firsten, president of IN8 Developments, said in an email.

“The building stood as a legacy to both the Carnovsky family and the grit and determination of Kingston business owners and their perseverance over generations.”

The limestone building at Princess and Victoria streets collapsed at about 4:30 a.m. Christmas morning. Firsten said the cause of the collapse was due to a weakened foundation coupled with the significant amount of rain Kingston received.

“In the 24 hours proceeding the collapse, Kingston experienced 150 per cent of its average monthly precipitation for the month of December,” Firsten wrote. “This water literally washed away the foundation. We are very fortunate that the collapse did not injure or even kill anyone.”

Firsten explained that during the extensive renovations, the north wall had buckled, causing it to fall. The west wall was also impacted, so safety officials ordered its demolition.

The east wall is still standing, but further investigation will determine its future.

IN8 is constructing Sage Kingston Condos, a 10-storey project featuring 325 condominiums and 680 square metres of commercial space. IN8 was required by the City of Kingston to restore the bakery as part of the construction.

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