If you have ever traveled down U.S. 52 or County Road 1, Old 52 as Burlington residents know it, and looked toward the river in the Burlington area, you likely took special notice of the water tower above the trees.

However, if you drive past today, that familiar landmark is now a fond piece of our county’s history.

This past week, workers took down the Burlington water tower as part of an agreement between the Lawrence County Commissioners and the water company after a replacement project was completed. The tower has been out of use for a few years, but served the Burlington community for decades.

The water tower sat next to the Burlington Commons, a park area that many residents use daily.

While it certainly can be sad to watch something that has been a part of a community for around 60 years, taking the water tower down and breathing new life into that piece of property that Burlington residents, among others, can use is the right move.

Whether it is tennis courts or green space that children and adults can use, we are confident that the commission and the Concerned Citizens of Burlington will come up with a plan that provides a special place for the community.

It can always be difficult to see pieces of our history taken down, but knowing that the property will continue to serve the community for generations to come helps ease our minds.