Housing and Community Development Department
Press Release
Mayor Parker Kicks Off Demolition of 400 Hazardous Buildings
with 2nd Annual Demo Day
May 21, 2011 -- Mayor Annise Parker, in partnership with the Houston Contractors Association (HCA), today joined neighbors and community members as one of the 99 buildings to be demolished today was torn down on 4223 Charleston Street in southwest Houston. A total of approximately 400 blighted structures will be razed throughout the city this year.
“Rather than ignore the sites that are a haven for drugs, prostitution and other crimes, we target them to help increase public safety and the neighborhood’s quality of life,” said Mayor Parker. “It has always been my passion to make our neighborhoods safer. With HCA’s help, we are addressing neighborhood needs in an efficient and fiscally responsible manner.”
The demolitions are funded by voter-approved bonds and TIRZ funds specifically earmarked for this purpose. These dollars cannot be spent on other city budgetary needs such as payroll. This year’s estimated demolitions total $1.7 million.
HCA, formed in 1956, is a nonprofit that represents the civil construction industry in the greater Houston area. There are approximately 400 member companies that build Houston roadways, bridges, water and storm sewers, and other civil projects. HCA volunteers will demolish 99 of the 400 structures, an estimated $350,000 donation. Those remaining, which have asbestos problems, will be taken down by City contractors throughout the next few months. Liens will be placed against the properties to help recover costs once the City of Houston has completed the work.
“As a member of Houston’s business community, HCA is pleased to partner with Mayor Parker to help make our city and its neighborhoods thrive,” said Alicia Jimerson, President, Houston Contractors Association.
The eligible pool of structures referred for demolition were selected from a list of properties that have an expired hearing order in which the owner failed to bring the structure into compliance. Additionally, the City of Houston’s Neighborhood Services and Housing and Community Development departments collaboratively sought the input of Houston City Council Members.
To report blight or other nuisances on private property, citizens are encouraged to call the City’s 3-1-1 helpline. Citizens can also contact their council member or a representative in the Mayor's Citizens' Assistance Office for assistance with reporting blight and substandard conditions in their neighborhood.
