CROSS LANES, W.Va. — Demolition is underway on more than 100 abandoned buildings across Kanawha County.
The first dilapidated structure was torn down Monday at 110 Harper Drive, just off Big Tyler Road, in Cross Lanes.
“We’ve provided notice to homeowners that the homes are unsafe and are driving down property values to the neighbors and if they didn’t come in to fix them, we’re going to knock them down,” said Kanawha County Commissioner Ben Salango.
Of the 114 structures, crews with Rodney Loftis & Son will knock down six buildings this week.
The $1 million project is financed by the county commission to rid neighborhoods of dilapidated structures which have resulted in drugs and others problems in various communities.
“These homes are not only an eyesore, but they’re dangerous,” Salango said. “The home we took down this morning is about 30 feet away from a home that’s very well-maintained. The family has kids, the kids could get in that structure and get hurt. It’s best to take these homes down just to protect the neighborhood.”
The project is financed through a zero-interest loan ($500,000) from the state Housing Development Fund and money ($500,000) from building permit fees.
Salango said the commission is not releasing locations of future demolition sites in order to protect homeowners. He said he hopes the properties will be redeveloped into attractive and affordable housing.
“Responsible property owners might take over and build a house there — something nice, something that is safe,” he said.
The commission has torn down 87 structures in the last four years.