Once a vibrant hub of Scranton nightlife, 519 Linden Street has seen numerous transformations since it’s construction in 1909. From its early days as a car showroom to later incarnations as Tink’s Night Club, Levels, and The Hardware Bar, the building has long been a staple in NEPA’s cultural scene.
In 2022, JBAS Realty, led by John Basalyga, embarked on an ambitious mission to breathe new life into this iconic downtown property. Their vision? To create A’tera 519, a high-end restaurant experience, and Sergei’s Live, an underground entertainment venue. It would become one of the most exciting and transformative commercial projects in downtown Scranton—and one of its most structurally complex.
That’s when KSG Engineers was brought in to help reinforce the vision.
Our team began by addressing serious structural challenges that had developed over decades of heavy use and deferred maintenance. These included a failing sidewalk vault, a deteriorating basement floor system, and significant issues with the building’s foundation and façade. Through careful engineering design and coordination, we helped stabilize, strengthen, and modernize the core of the structure while preserving its character.
Much of the reconstruction work was unanticipated—revealed only once demolition began. And it all had to move forward under tough site conditions and in the middle of a Scranton winter. But the JBAS construction team pushed through, demonstrating true commitment to both craftsmanship and community impact.
Today, A’tera 519 stands as a testament to Scranton’s resilience and commitment to preserving its rich history while embracing modernity. The establishment offers a New York City vibe with a sprawling central bar, year-round glass-wrapped “al fresco” dining, and mezzanine-level seating . Below, Sergei’s Live provides an intimate setting for live music and events, further cementing 519 Linden Street’s place in the heart of Scranton’s cultural landscape.
This is what it looks like when a bold vision meets the right team—and the right engineering.
We’re proud to have helped reinforce the vision for 519 Linden Street—and even prouder to continue doing so for one our region’s most meaningful projects.
