Hitchner Building

United Neighborhood Community Development Corporation (UNCDC) is restoring the historic Hitchner Biscuit property to its former significance in Luzerne County. In keeping with the Borough of West Pittston’s development objectives, it is UNCDC’s plan to rehabilitate the main building into 18, general occupancy units including 6 one-bedroom, 7 two-bedroom and 5 three-bedroom apartments. The proposed development will complement and enhance the residential character of the neighborhood and in particular, the newly renovated public park situated directly across Exeter Avenue.

The Hitchner will be completely rehabilitated into apartments ranging from 600 sq. ft. for the 1-bedroom units up to 1,100 sq. ft. for the 3-bedroom apartments.  Two of the units will be wheelchair accessible and all will be adaptable. Renovations will include the removal of the one-story loading dock addition and concrete block garage in order to accommodate additional parking and landscaping. The restoration of the primary building will be complete, green & sustainable and include: roof and window replacement; R-38 insulation added to roof;  restoration & re-pointing of exterior masonry walls;  insulation of exterior walls with 3 1/2” steel studs and R-19 cellulose inside the heavy masonry;  new gypsum board painted walls;  carpeted floors; fully equipped kitchens and baths;  entirely new plumbing from the street;  PEX piping with manifold control blocks in each apartment; energy-efficient fixtures including water-saving devises; elevator; new sprinkler system throughout; individual electric heat pumps in each apartment; new underground, individually-metered electric service; and, on-site parking with landscaping.