Chicago has its own way to contend with derelict buildings

It’s true that vacant and derelict buildings can become a matter of concern for the local administration. Don’t you believe? If you don’t, simply go and ask your city councilors. They are the best persons to divulge the secrets. Well, this is not any isolated phenomenon in any part of the world but is present in almost each and every city especially the elegant and fashionable urban centers. These buildings become good centers for ruffians and several forms of felonious or criminal activities as well. I think that you can still remember the world famous gangster Alphonse Gabriel “Al” Capone who led a crime syndicate and his exploits of Chicago.

Well, it is again the city of Chicago which is quite perturbed over these activities. The pertinent administration of the city seems to be blinded with rage over the presence of more than 60 boarded-up buildings in the city that attract all forms of illegal activities. You may not believe but some buildings haven’t experienced any type of repairs in these decades. What should be done in that case? The North Chicago officials are destined to pull them down and have introduced a Blight Busting program to make it a reality. This desperate mood was best expressed by Steve McInnis, city building commissioner. According to him, these buildings are nothing but the best safe havens of squatters and hosts of problems that make police intervene. Nine houses and two-flats have been demolished by now.

What is the fate of the others therefore? While some were pulled down by the owners gladly, two were city-owned. Other owners were taken to court by the city. Nevertheless, this is not the end of the story. The city is going to carry on this movement in the coming months also and it is going to start again from the next spring.

The approach is certainly commendable and relieves the citizens along with the city.