Albany’s Condemned Buildings: A Growing Concern
Fire Razes 610 Third Street, Raising Questions on Building Management
On Wednesday morning, crews began demolishing 610 Third Street, the site of a Tuesday afternoon fire that has left many wondering about the city’s handling of condemned buildings like this one.
The Fire
The fire had a significant jump start, with flames showing from all second-floor windows, first-floor windows, and the doorway, according to Albany Fire Chief Joseph Gregory. The fire department determined that someone was in the building when the fire started, although the cause is still under investigation.
A Troubled Past
The property had a troubled past, with the Director of Albany’s Department of Buildings and Regulatory Compliance, Rick LaJoy, revealing that the owner had been cited multiple times to register the property as a vacant structure. Although the owner complied once, he failed to re-register, and the city has since taken legal action.
Consequences for Negligent Homeowners
According to LaJoy, the city takes a multi-agency approach to address neglected properties. City attorneys take over the case, and negligent homeowners can face fines of up to $1,000 per day for violations.
Community Organizations Step In
Community organizations like the Albany Community Land Trust are working to alleviate the issue by helping local residents buy homes and revamp entire city blocks. Assistant Property Manager Valerie Alexander-Moseley explained that the not-for-profit is focused on First and Third Streets, with the ultimate goal of improving communities.
Renewed Hope
With the demolition of 610 Third Street, there is renewed hope that the city can revamp the area and bring new life to the community. As Alexander-Moseley noted, "You see a big difference because now you don’t have to empty lots, you don’t have the vacant apartments, you have brand new construction."
FAQs
Q: What is the current status of the investigation into the fire at 610 Third Street?
A: The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Q: How does the city handle condemned buildings like 610 Third Street?
A: The city takes a multi-agency approach, involving the Department of Buildings and Regulatory Compliance, the Corporation Counsel’s office, and other agencies to address neglected properties.
Q: What kind of fines can negligent homeowners face?
A: Negligent homeowners can face fines of up to $1,000 per day for violations.
Q: What is being done to revamp the area around 610 Third Street?
A: The Albany Community Land Trust is working to help local residents buy homes and revamp the area, with a focus on First and Third Streets.
