Demolition begins on a hazardous Westheimer Road building after community pressure and city intervention, addressing long-standing safety and legal concerns.
HOUSTON — Work has begun to tear down a vacant building along Westheimer Road near Hillcroft that had become a safety hazard for nearby businesses.
KHOU 11 first reported on the property after business owners raised concerns that it was attracting vagrants, drug activity, and posed fire risks. According to the Houston Fire Department, crews responded to at least four fires at the structure over the past two years.
The owner of Stockyard Barbecue, located next door, said the building had become a major nuisance. “If the city doesn’t deal with this now, I mean, what are we waiting for, for someone to die?” said Lou Joubrani.
After KHOU’s reporting, the city sent inspectors, but a review found the building did not meet the criteria for emergency demolition. City officials said the structure would have to go through a legal review process if the owner did not act.
Now, construction equipment is on site, and a significant portion of the building has already been removed, signaling the start of demolition. The property owner had previously applied for a demolition permit and is working to disconnect water and gas services.
City Council Member Mary Nan Huffman, who represents the area, said enforcement and accountability remain key. “We need enforcement to stay on these properties, keep issuing these notices and hold them accountable,” she said.
KHOU 11 will continue to follow developments as the demolition progresses.
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