13-Year-Old Starts Online Petition to Save Former Psych Center Buildings

An online petition by a thirteen-year-old boy has been started to stop the second phase of demolition at the former Kings Park Psychiatric Center so that historic buildings can be preserved.

Jace Dietrich, of Deer Park, said he values the unique architecture displayed on some of the buildings, especially building 93.

“The buildings themselves have a unique style, but the state didn’t keep up on the buildings,” said Jace. “I am trying very hard to preserve the buildings.”

Jace said he has contacted state Sen. John Flanagan, Long Island Regional Director of Parks Ron Foley and a New York State Parks historian.

Jace’s mom, Briana, said her son has a strong interest in preserving the buildings.

“I am quite impressed that he thought of all on his own,” she said.

The petition has 22 signatures.

The family doesn’t reside in Kings Park, but Briana has family that lives there. Jace said the history is not just important to Kings Park, but to Long Island.

“I don’t want any nice buildings demolished,” said Jace. "The architectural beauty can’t be repeated and the architect has passed away."

His mom agrees.

“Enough of tearing down history on Long Island to make way for malls and housing. It is important to try to preserve what we have," she said.

Jace said he is dedicated to the cause and that his family is behind him.

"I only want to accomplish seeing the buildings stay and possibly renovate them for tours or possibly a museum," said Jace. "It may be costly, removing the asbestos and lead paint, but at least history can be saved so that it can be a reminder to why Kings Park was even built."

To view Jace's petition, click here.