First Phase Of Major Demolition Project In Camden Nears Completion
by Mike Dougherty
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The first phase of a massive demolition project in the city of Camden is nearly complete, and officials there say it's just the beginning.
Since January 2015, more than 530 vacant homes have been leveled and many of the lots are ready for redevelopment.
"We see this, one, as a public safety matter in getting the properties down. But also a step forward in the future revitalization efforts in Camden," said Mayor Dana Redd.
Mayor Redd says only about 60 remain on the hit list.
"Many of these abandoned units were contributing to illegal activity," she said.
Camden County police chief Scott Thompson says the number one complaint from residents is about the gang activity, drug use, and prostitution going down in dilapidated properties.
"Unfortunately, the abandoned homes have been negatively defining the lives of people in neighborhoods for far too long, and it's nice to be able to something about that," said Thompson.
Next, wreckers will turn their attention to vacant commercial properties.
Mayor Redd welcomes developers, but only if they are committed to the cause. Speculators need not apply.
"Any prospective business leader, owner, they need to come with their capital and come with a plan that fits into the larger picture of where we're taking Camden," said Redd.
She says long time residents have stuck around through tough times and they deserve to be here when things turn the corner.
