Demolition of a downtown Galesburg building ravaged by fire nearly three months ago is expected to start within two weeks.
An early-morning fire on Feb. 19 caused extensive structural and water damage of the 3-story building at 149-151 E. Main St.
Steve Gugliotta, director of Community Development, tells WGIL a demolition contract was signed last week between the private property owner/insurance company and the demolition contractor, USA Recycling. The city has been in communication with the demolition contractor, who has completed the required 10-day notice to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency for asbestos.
The property was tested, and Gugliotta said any identified asbestos will be mitigated and removed prior to demolition. It is anticipated the contractor will submit a demolition permit application to the city this week.
The area remains fenced off for safety reasons.
Gugliotta said demolition is expected to start within two weeks and be completed within 4 to 6 weeks after the start date, weather permitting.
The HUB, located west of the fire site at 143 E. Main St. and owned by KCCDD Inc./Thrive Community Services, has remained closed due to the structural instability of 149-151 E. Main St.
Gugliotta said care will be taken by the demolition contractor, USA Recycling, to avoid potential damage to the building west of the demolition site.
North Prairie Street between Main and Ferris streets has been closed to through traffic since the fire.
“Having a fire-damaged building downtown is never ideal; however, the most important factor is safety, which necessitates the roadway remains closed to pedestrians and traffic,” Gugliotta said.
Gugliotta said there have been minor impacts from the road closure to traffic, and adjacent business operations. The public transit transfer station, which is usually at this intersection, has been temporarily relocated to Broad Street and the Public Square.
It is anticipated the roadways will open once all demolition work has been completed.
The property is owned by by 61401 Galesburg, LLC of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina.
Gugliotta said the future use of the site will be decided by the private property owner.
