Yakima Program Targets Dangerous Structures for Demolition

YAKIMA, Wash. (AP) — There are about 100 buildings left in Yakima that officials are working to get fixed up or demolished as part of a program to address abandoned and potentially dangerous buildings in the city.

The Yakima Herald-Republic reports the City Council previously approved up to $100,000 in an effort to address such structures, which affect surrounding property values and can attract vandalism and illegal squatters. Since September, 20 dangerous buildings have been renovated or completely torn down.

The building sites that have been targeted include those that have been damaged by fires and found to be in violation of city code.

Code Administration Manager Joe Caruso says the city will soon start the process of getting contractors to demolish the most dilapidated and hazardous buildings that remain.