Union and West End Cemetery

 

The sink holes that opened up on March 14, 2014, just west of the main gate (approx. 30 yards) of the Union and West End Cemetery may be larger and more dangerous than at first suspected. A number of geologist were consulted and most feel that there is a larger void beneth the sink holes making it much worse than the openings on the surface might lead one to believe.

The cemetery directors are taking the matter seriously and are consulting with experts in the field in an effort to determine how serious the situation is and how much it will cost to repair the damage. Initial indications are that it is a serious and dangerous situation that must be addressed in a timely fashion. As soon as more detailed information is known it will be posted to this blog.

On March 21, 2014, the cemetery directors approved the installation of a temporary fence to enclose the immediate affected area so that it will not present a danger to anyone. All gates have been closed and locked and signage has been posted around the cemetery warning that it is dangerous to enter the cemetery and that anyone entering the cemtery does so at their own peril and will be quilty of trespassing. We emplore all Allentowen citizens to avoid the cemetery until such time as it is deemed safe.

We also encourage the cemetery neighbors to call the police if they see anyone ignoring the No Trespassing signs and entering the cemetery premises in difiance of the signs.

The photographs that follow were taken on March 22, 2014, following the temporary erection of a fence around the affected sink hole area.

Also see posting for March 16, 2014, for additional information and photographs of sink hole damage in the cemetery.

# posted by Everette Carr @ 12:40 PM