Demolition work is now underway at the former Smith-Rogers building in Ghent, as the City of Norfolk and the Chrysler Museum of Art move forward with plans to clear the site for future use.
The building, located at the corner of Mowbray Arch and Botetourt Street, is now surrounded by construction fencing as crews begin the demolition process. The nearby parking lot on Botetourt Street is also impacted as work gets going.
A building with decades of history
Constructed in 1962, the Smith-Rogers building originally served as a dormitory for nursing students before later being converted into administrative office space.
The property spans two parcels, including the main structure and a nearby green space that was once home to Leigh Memorial Hospital.
Why it’s being demolished
Officials say demolition was determined to be the safest and most cost-effective option after inspections revealed hazardous materials, including asbestos, along with the need for extensive upgrades to meet modern safety codes…