BINGHAMTON - The City of Binghamton announced the demolition of six blighted structures will be completed next week by Gorick Construction, which as lowest bidder, was awarded a nearly $140,000 demolition contract last month.

“We completed more than 80 demolitions the last four years thanks to our proactive and successful pursuit of millions in federal and state grants,” said Mayor Matt Ryan. “The six properties that are part of this demolition contract were blighted, tax-foreclosed structures we acquired back from the County to end the cycle of speculation and abandonment by irresponsible landlords. Going forward, my administration will continue to compete for these types of grants to ensure we have the resources necessary to remove abandoned flood damaged structures at the lowest possible cost to the local taxpayer.”

The properties that are part of this current demolition round include:

• 184 Conklin Avenue
• 63 Thorpe Street
• 37 Charlotte Street
• 112 Liberty Street
• 127 Liberty Street
• 41 Mary Street

The first three properties are already demolished, and the rest should be down and cleared by early next week. Many of the properties are long-time eyesores that residents have strongly advocated removing.

“I applaud the City of Binghamton and Matt Ryan for these continued efforts in the removal of these blighted properties,” said ProCare Copier owner Rick Bernhauer, long-time proponent of cleaning up 37 Charlotte Street, the severely blighted property across the street from his company. “Especially in these difficult times, these positive efforts are especially meaningful as we work to rebuild our community.”

The demolitions are being paid for with funds from the Community Development Block Grant, an annual federal grant the City receives to remove blight, promote housing, pave roads and support activities and programs that benefit low/moderate income families and neighborhoods.