City takes hard look at problem properties

NORWICH – For years, some properties in the City of Norwich have caused a constant problem to city code enforcement officers. Condemned, burned out or abandoned properties are often left standing in shambles for years before anything can be done, but the city is now looking into ways to expedite the process.

According to Mayor Joseph Maiurano, for the second year in a row, the city will be applying for the Restore New York Grant. Although the grant was not received last year, Maiurano seemed hopeful that Norwich would have better luck during this round.

“The Restore New York Grant provides money to tear down buildings and re-build new residences in their place,” Maiurano explained. The city would have to obtain the properties before any work could be done, but according to the mayor several properties have already been acquired by the city. He pointed out a property on Grove Ave. that has been boarded up for 20 years and a burned out property on Fair Street as examples of properties that could be revitalized through the grant funding.

“We’re going for the second round of funding right now,” Maiurano said. “We should have word by the end of next week.” If the city does receive this round of grant funding, building could begin as early as 2008.