Plan to Rid Mississippi of Abandoned Eyesores

Eleven years have passed since Katrina struck South Mississippi and some eyesores are still left behind. That could soon change if the U.S. Department of Treasury approves a new program.
The “Blight Elimination Program,” by the Mississippi Home Corporation, aims to eliminate run-down vacant and abandoned properties across our state.
It provides an opportunity for cities to apply for a part of a fund to demolish blighted residential properties. Qualifying properties must have been vacant for at least a year and are not listed on a historic registry. David Hancock with the Mississippi Home Corporation said, “We’re aware that the southern portion of the state would have a great need for the use of these dollars, not only for the elimination of blighted properties, but also the removal of slabs and steps and driveways for redevelopment and potential future growth opportunities.”
If the program is approved, $20 million will be made available statewide for demolition. MHC anticipates about 1,500 homes across the state can be demolished at an average cost of $15,000 each.