Overview
- A deteriorating temporary wall at the former J.C. Penney failed during winds over 30 mph, and no injuries were reported.
- Inspectors reported hazards including water in electrical areas, exposed sprinkler piping, faulty detectors, broken heating, collapsed ceilings, buckling walls and wildlife intrusion.
- Hanover’s code chief said owner Namdar Realty Group let a permit for a permanent wall lapse and did not complete the work despite repeated outreach from the borough.
- The building was declared unsafe, halting customer access and disrupting about 16 tenant businesses, while Rural King and DaVita Dialysis outside the main concourse remain open.
- Reporters received no immediate response from Namdar, and officials said additional enforcement could follow if the property is not brought up to code.