Project was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic

MARSHALL, Mich. – The Calhoun County Land Bank Authority (CCLBA) today announced demolition would resume this week on the Union Steel building in Albion. The project was halted following Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order on March 23. A portion of the building on the verge of collapsing was demolished in April because it posed a significant safety risk. The project is expected to take three months to complete.

“The Land Bank and our contractor, Pitsch Companies, are eager to get back to work and see this project through to completion,” said CCLBA Board Chair, Brian Wensauer. “I want to thank the residents of Albion and those living around the former Union Steel building for their patience while we waited to safely resume this important project.”

Residents should continue to refrain from walking through the site for any reason. The Land Bank also encourages neighbors to keep doors and windows closed to reduce noise and dust and minimize time outside during active demolition.

“The demolition of the former Union Steel building is in line with the Land Bank’s goal of eliminating blight to improve local neighborhoods, promote public safety and protect home values,” said CCLBA Executive Director Krista Trout-Edwards. “I want to thank our partners, including Calhoun County Treasurer Brian Wensauer, the Environmental Protection Agency and the City of Albion, for pooling together their resources to bring this project to fruition.”

The demolition of the former Union Steel building will be funded in part by the transfer of funds from the Calhoun County Treasurer to the Land Bank. The Calhoun County Board of Commissioners approved the appropriation last year. In addition, the Albion City Council approved $300,000 in financial support for the project. The city agreed to pay in five installments beginning this year and ending in 2024. Existing funding from an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) grant is also being used.

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The Calhoun County Land Bank Authority is a separate legal authority that collaborates closely with the Calhoun County Treasurer and local municipalities to eliminate blight, improve downtowns and promote local economic development.