MADISON, Ala. — Five long-vacant buildings near the Wall-Triana Highway exit off Interstate 565 have been reduced to rubble, marking the start of what city officials say will be a sweeping revitalization effort along one of Madison’s most-traveled corridors.
The demolitions are part of a broader push by the city to address properties that have sat neglected for years along Madison Boulevard. The effort gained momentum following the Sutton Apartments crisis, which prompted Madison to form a multi-department task force and take a harder look at problem properties that have long frustrated residents and business owners.
“We determined that we were going to start enforcing the codes that we do have, notifying owners,” said Mayor Ranae Bartlett. “What you see on the corner of Sullivan and Madison Boulevard is an owner that was responsive to the notices that we gave them and are part of the solution.”…