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Rochester Cobblestone Home Faces Demolition as Restoration Funds Stall

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  Published in House and Home on Thursday, January 8th 2026 at 6:07 GMT by Democrat and Chronicle

ROCHESTER, NY - January 8th, 2026 - A unique piece of Rochester's architectural heritage is slowly crumbling on Arnett Boulevard, raising concerns among local residents and sparking debate about the city's commitment to historical preservation. The cobblestone home at 658 Arnett Blvd., believed to be the last of its kind remaining within the city limits, has sat vacant and deteriorating for years, and despite a city takeover over a year ago, remains boarded up and awaiting a future that feels increasingly uncertain.

Built in the 1850s, the house is a rare example of cobblestone construction - a technique popular in the mid-19th century, particularly in areas with abundant fieldstones. These homes were not built of cobblestones as we often imagine river or beach stones, but with them. Builders skillfully arranged fieldstones, often rounded and flat, to create a visually striking and durable exterior wall. The style offered a practical solution for utilizing readily available materials, resulting in structures that were both aesthetically pleasing and remarkably strong. Only a handful of these structures remain in Western New York, making the Arnett Boulevard property particularly significant.

The city of Rochester assumed ownership of the property in late 2023, with initial promises of revitalization. The intent was to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) - inviting developers to submit plans for restoring the historical building, potentially transforming it into a community space, a unique residence, or even a small business hub. However, those plans have stalled, hampered by ongoing budgetary pressures.

"We had high hopes," explains longtime resident Jim Smith, who lives nearby. "That house isn't just bricks and stones; it's a connection to Rochester's past. Every time I walk by, I'm saddened to see it falling apart. It feels like we're losing a piece of ourselves." Smith's sentiment is echoed by many in the neighborhood who remember when the home was a vibrant part of the community.

City spokesperson Sarah Jones acknowledges the frustration. "The city is absolutely committed to preserving our historic buildings," she stated. "However, we operate within financial realities. We're actively exploring all available options for the Arnett Boulevard property, including grant opportunities, public-private partnerships, and alternative funding sources."

The core issue isn't simply a lack of interest, but a lack of funding. Restoration projects, particularly for structures of this age, are notoriously expensive. Beyond the visible decay, hidden issues like foundation instability, outdated wiring, and potential asbestos or lead paint contamination add significant costs. A comprehensive restoration could easily run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars.

The delay has fueled fears that the house may ultimately be demolished. Once a structure reaches a certain level of disrepair, it can become structurally unsound and prohibitively expensive to save. This point of no return is looming large in the minds of residents like Smith. "Every month that passes makes it harder and harder," he warns. "We need a concrete plan, and we need it now."

Local historical societies are advocating for increased funding for preservation efforts. They argue that preserving historic buildings isn't just about nostalgia; it's about economic development, attracting tourism, and fostering a sense of community identity. Restored historic properties can become anchors for neighborhood revitalization, drawing in residents and businesses.

The situation on Arnett Boulevard highlights a broader challenge facing many cities - balancing the need for economic growth with the responsibility of preserving cultural heritage. The Rochester cobblestone home stands as a stark reminder that inaction can lead to irreversible loss, and that preserving a city's history requires both vision and investment.