Macomb OKs demolition for run-down properties on Adams St.

MACOMB, Ill. (NEWS3) — More than a handful of dilapidated properties in Macomb will soon be demolished.

Macomb City Council unanimously approved a measure to tear down eight dilapidated and vacant homes along the 500 and 600 block of West Adams Street during Monday night’s meeting.

The move is part of the RISE (Residential Initiative & Stabilization Effort) program the city offers for property owners to get rid of blight in the north-west part of Macomb. The city reimburses the applicant a fraction of the cost to remove their structure.

“I think this aligns with the city’s vision for West Adams Street,” Macomb Community Development Coordinator John Bannon told the council. “I think it will improve the quadrant. It will work for all of our partners in the community. Not the least of which is Western Illinois University.”

Bannon said the price tag to demolish the eight homes is $71,750. The owner will then be reimbursed 50 percent of the price after the demolition is completed.

According to city documents, the cost to demolish each home runs between $7,500 to $9,750. The city has budgeted up to $4,500 per house depending on the cost.

The city expects the project to start within the next few weeks and could take up to this fall. It is up to the owner if the land will become green space.

The following properties have been given the green light from the council to be demolished and the owner reimbursed half the cost. Pictures of some of the properties are located in this story.

• 501, 507, 517, 533, 607, 615, 619 and 627 W. Adams St.