Daphne Moves to Demolish Former Taco Bell and Quincy’s as Mayor Calls Blight Removal ‘Step One’ for U.S. 98 Entrance
Daphne is working to remove two vacant buildings at the entrance to the city. Mayor Robin LeJeune says demolition could begin within about a month as leaders look at incentives and development tools for the area.
DAPHNE, Ala. — The first thing many people see as they enter Daphne on U.S. 98 could soon look quite different.
The city is working to remove two vacant buildings near the city entrance as part of a broader effort to address blight along the corridor and plan for the area’s future. The Daphne City Council was scheduled to hold a public hearing Monday on the former Taco Bell building, located next to the old Quincy’s. The council had already ordered the Quincy’s demolished.
Mayor Robin LeJeune said the city delayed that demolition while it worked through the process for the Taco Bell, so one contractor could potentially take down both buildings at once and save on mobilization costs.
“We want our best foot forward,” LeJeune said of the properties at the entrance to the city.
He said the city hopes demolition of the two buildings could begin within the next month or so, depending on the council’s action.
A process that takes time
LeJeune said the problem is not limited to commercial buildings. Some homes have deteriorated over the years, including properties that were damaged in hurricanes and left unrepaired.
Several years ago, the city changed its ordinance to give officials more options for addressing unsafe buildings, including demolition. Before the city can take that step, inspectors must assess a property and the owner must have an opportunity to make repairs. LeJeune said the process can take months and must follow state law.
So far, the city has demolished two properties itself, according to the mayor. Other owners have repaired or torn down their properties after the city began enforcement proceedings.
Looking beyond demolition
“Tearing down the blight is definitely step one,” LeJeune said.
The city is also discussing ways to revitalize the area, including possible business incentives and development tools. LeJeune pointed to a new bridge and an amphitheater planned nearby and said the city is working with the council to decide how to move forward.
