In August 2023, the City of Rochester received a report from structural engineers at Foley Buhl Roberts & Associates, Inc. concluding that Nancy Loud School is considered “not safe for occupancy”, requiring both repair work to shore up the walls and further testing to determine ways to secure the foundation.

The review determined that the stone and brick foundation is deteriorated and settled. As a result, brick foundation walls and exterior wood-framed walls along the southeast exterior wall are displaced outward. These walls support the second floor and roof above. These conditions make it unsafe to occupy.

Due to the integrity of the grounds surrounding the building, Public Safety officials have recommended temporarily closing the playground out of an abundance of caution. A temporary fence has been installed.

On November 13, 2023, the City of Rochester facilitated a community meeting to allow neighborhood residents to provide input and share ideas about what they’d like to see happen with the property in the future.

According to City Manager Katie Ambrose, there were at least 40-50 residents in attendance and participants overwhelmingly advocated for recreational uses. This feedback will be incorporated into future City Council discussions on plans for the property.