By Nathan Mayberg
MONTICELLO — September 16, 2005 – After decades of serving as arguably the brightest and most recognizable business on Broadway in Monticello, Kaplan’s closed in 1992 – but its large and famous stainless steel sign beamed far and wide . . . until this past Tuesday, when it finally came down after urging from Village of Monticello Mayor James Barnicle and Manager Richard Sush.
The famous restaurant was known for its delicatessen, which served thousands upon thousands. But the village’s leaders decided that the landmark business would have to be retired – despite its historical legacy.
Barnicle acknowledged the nostalgia factor – but to other people arriving in the area, it was just a dilapidated building, he said.
The mayor said the removal of the sign was a step forward for the village. Other local businesses who are in violation of sign codes will also be asked to remove or replace theirs.
Keller Glass of Jeffersonville was unable to salvage the stainless steel, as the letters did not hold together when removed. They were dumped at Liberty Scrap Metal in Parksville.
Andre Musovic, the owner of the building, and AAA Realty and Management in New York City plan to rent two stores in the former restaurant.
Barnicle saw the removal of Kaplan’s as a way of rejuvenating Broadway, which will likely continue next year with a full-blown reconstruction project of the street by the New York State Department of Transportation. He said New York State Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther and New York State Senator John Bonacic are behind the project. The village will also replace its sewer lines on the road next year.