Jackson, Mich. (WKHM, Marc W. Daly) — The Jackson City Council has approved the purchase of the vacant Keeders Show Bar at the corner of South Elm and Page Avenues. The city plans to demolish the building this winter as part of ongoing efforts to revitalize Jackson’s east side.

Officials say removing blighted properties like Keeders is a critical step in attracting new businesses and housing opportunities to the area. City administrators also emphasize the importance of keeping businesses with negative reputations out of residential neighborhoods.

Once demolished, the site will be converted into green space, paving the way for future development along the Page and East Michigan commercial corridors. While the process will take time and effort, city leaders believe it’s a necessary move to support growth and investment on the east side.