Photo courtesy of the City of Jackson

Jackson, Mich. (WKHM) — The City of Jackson has announced that a $3 million grant is being awarded by the State Land Bank Authority’s Blight Elimination Program to the Jackson County Land Bank for the cleanup and demolition of fire-damaged portions of an industrial complex at the corner of W. North Street and Hamilton Street.

The fire, which occurred on August 22, 2023, was massive and required multiple fire departments from across the County to respond. The site has since been found to be contaminated with asbestos.

The City says the Jackson County Land Bank applied for the $3 million grant, with the City of Jackson managing the demolition & removal.

City Manager Jonathan Greene said it’s the responsibility of the private property owner to clean it up. However, because of the negative impact of the building on the community, “it was important for local government to work together to remove this eyesore and environmental concern,” said Greene.

City staff are now beginning plans for the project and a timeline for demolition has yet to be set.