The downtown area continues to face the challenge of neglected properties. This challenge is frustrating; it limits the growth of the downtown and is a serious threat.
Main Street Beatrice is working with property owners and City Leaders to seek out a more proactive approach to the issue. An approach that will hopefully result in better property care and head off catastrophic building problems that result in demolition by neglect. This will take good property stewardship, community pride, grant funding, and code enforcement work.
Success is possible. Over the last 3 years, around $5 million in downtown improvements have been made. Since 2016 we have seen a net gain of 24 shops. Despite these successes, there are still problems to be addressed, properties in major need of repair.
Currently, there are two downtown condemned buildings, 323 Court Street and 413 Court Street. The building at 323 Court Street may be able to saved if steps are taken now for its repair. The building at 413 Court Street may be a loss, with more proactive steps taken hopefully it will be one of the last buildings we lose.
Demolition of a building should be the last resort.
If you would like more information on this topic or our efforts to address the issue please contact Michael Sothan at 402-223-3244.
#BeatriceNE #DowntownBeatrice #fightapathy #revitalizeordie
News Channel Nebraska News Story: City of Beatrice Seeks Review of Buildings, Adjacent to Condemned Structure, Wednesday, September 9th 2020
Beatrice Daily Sun News Story: Beatrice council considers demolishing downtown building, Tuesday, September 8th 2020
