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The Deteriorating Effect of Abandoned Buildings
In cities like Charleston, the presence of abandoned buildings poses significant safety concerns for the community. For Tina and Matt Glaspey, the decline of the house on First Avenue and Fitzgerald Street exemplifies how quickly properties can deteriorate when left unaddressed. Within just two years, it went from a lively household to a condemned structure, highlighting the pressing need for effective demolition programs to maintain neighborhood safety.
A State Program on the Brink
West Virginia's initiative to tackle the alarming issue of abandoned buildings, through the Demolition Landfill Assistance Program, has been instrumental in removing dangerous structures across the state. Funded largely by $30 million from federal pandemic relief, this program has successfully demolished about 1,800 structures since its inception. However, with these funds now exhausted, municipalities are precariously left to manage escalating demolition costs without state or federal support.
Community Impact and Rising Concerns
Charleston, the state’s largest city, has efficiently utilized this funding to counter the influence of dilapidated buildings. Having spent over $12 million on demolishing more than 700 unsafe properties, the city's effort underscores the significance of local and state collaboration in preserving community integrity. Yet, city planner John Butterworth warns that without state assistance, even cities with more resources will struggle to keep neighborhoods safe from potential hazards linked to abandoned structures.
The Future of Abandoned Property Management
As the problem remains unresolved, Carrie Staton of the West Virginia Brownfields Assistance Center emphasizes the essential nature of having groundwork laid to support counties and communities in managing dilapidated properties. Rural areas face distinct challenges, lacking the population density that might otherwise bolster state funding for maintenance and demolition. Without legislative action or replacement funding, the resurgence of unsafe buildings poses an unyielding challenge for homeowners and municipalities alike, further underscoring the urgent need for a revitalized demolition program.
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