Substandard Structures

Removing unsafe and abandoned structures is essential to keeping our neighborhoods safe, vibrant, and welcoming. When buildings are left vacant or fall into disrepair, they can attract crime, pose fire risks, and negatively impact the surrounding area. Demolishing these structures helps protect residents, enhances the appearance of our communities, and creates space for new possibilities.

For years, the Tysen House at 515 E. Erwin Street stood vacant. Once a private residence, the building had fallen into disrepair and became the site of multiple fires between 2020 and 2022. In December 2021, a fire at the property injured responding firefighters, further raising concerns about the building’s safety.

After inspection, the structure was declared unsafe and flagged as a priority for removal. To address the issue, in May 2023, the City Council approved a contract with ERI Consulting, Inc. to remove asbestos and oversee demolition.

By the end of 2023, the structure was safely demolished, eliminating a major safety risk from the neighborhood. What was once a hazard is now a clean, open space ready for new possibilities.

Tysen House Demolition

Since 2022, the City of Tyler has committed $200,000 to identify and remove dangerous, blighted structures. This effort is part of a larger push to improve public safety, protect property values, and make way for future growth in our neighborhoods.

The City supports demolition efforts through two key programs: the Neighborhood Revitalization Board (NRB) Ordered Demolition Program and the Voluntary Demolition Program. The NRB Ordered Demolition Program is used when a property is declared unsafe, and the owner does not respond or take corrective action. After a public hearing and legal notice, the NRB can order the removal of the structure.

Recent NRB-ordered demolitions include:

• 2106 N. Alfred Ave.
• 1022 E. Commerce St.
• 823 W. 28th St.
• 8132 Kevin Dr.
• 523 E. Barger St.
• 1317 N. Pegues Ave.
• 1005 W. Morris St.

Each of these locations had become a threat to nearby homes and residents. With the structures now removed, these spaces are safer and open for future use.

The Voluntary Demolition Program allows property owners to work directly with the City to remove buildings that are beyond repair. This cooperative approach helps reduce delays and legal costs while addressing safety concerns more efficiently. The program has been successful in clearing blighted structures with the owner's consent and has resulted in significant visual and safety improvements across several neighborhoods.

Recent Voluntary Demolitions include:

• 2012 Roy St.
• 2400 Hughey Dr.
• 212 E. Mims St.
• 2709 N. Tenneha Ave.
• 2715 N. Tenneha Ave.
• 1209 N. Palace Ave.
• 1414 N. Palace Ave.
• 751 W. Vance St.
• 2400 Belvedere Blvd.
• 1722 N. Palace Ave.
• 817 W. 3rd St.
• 2809 Garden Valley Rd.
• 817 W. 3rd St. (Accessory Structure)

In the widgets to the right, you can view the before and after images of each of these properties. These images show the dramatic improvement demolition can bring to a community.

Scroll to the bottom of the page to ask any questions about this project.