The city of Gary, Indiana, has launched its third annual “Blight Blitz,” an initiative aimed at revitalizing the community by removing unsafe and abandoned homes.

On Monday morning, demolition teams were hard at work dismantling structures deemed hazardous by the city. This effort is part of a broader strategy to enhance neighborhood safety and pave the way for future development.

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As part of this year’s campaign, nearly 60 homes are on the list for demolition, a significant move towards transforming the urban landscape.

Volunteer contractors are spearheading the demolition efforts across five key areas: Downtown, Emerson, Glen Park, Midtown, and Westside, underscoring community collaboration in this initiative.

“This demolition blitz is more than just clearing unsightly buildings; it’s about laying a new foundation for our neighborhoods,” remarked Mayor Eddie D. Melton. “By removing these blighted areas, we eliminate hazards and send a clear message to residents and potential investors that Gary is open for new opportunities. Our heartfelt thanks go to Jim Wiseman and all our volunteer partners who continue to invest in our city’s future each year.”

“This demolition blitz is doing more than removing eyesores; it is resetting the foundation of our neighborhoods,” Mayor Eddie D. Melton said. “By clearing these blighted lots, we are removing safety hazards and signaling to residents and investors alike that Gary is ready for new growth. We are incredibly grateful to Jim Wiseman and all our volunteer partners who step up year after year to invest in our city’s future.”

“This is what it’s about is a better tomorrow for our kids. All these folks behind me share that vision,” said Jim Weisman, with Rieth-Riley Construction.

Some Gary residents say they’ve been waiting for this.

“It’s about time, about time for them to come down, trying to clean the city up,” resident Ty Borom said.

“I’m like, hallelujah,” resident Sandra Jackson-Brooks said.

Gary is among the American Rust Belt cities that saw a decline in population and wealth with the shift in the steel industry to automation and increased offshore competition.

But for the first time in 50 years, the city reports the population has grown, crime is down and billions of dollars of investment are coming to the city.

“No neighbor, no business wants to live or operate next to an abandoned building. We are answering the call of the residents of northwest Indiana,” said U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan, who represents Indiana’s 1st District.

Jackson-Brooks recalled the heyday of Gary.

“Gary was up and popping; it was booming, baby,” Jackson-Brooks said.

For now, she says she is glad for the abandoned homes to go, so she can keep a watchful eye out for neighbors and kids on the block. She also has an eye on the future.

The building up may take 10-20 years, but city leaders say this is a step forward for the city of Gary.