HAGERSTOWN– The mayor and council have voted to formally approve an emergency buy for the demolition of a collapsed garage at 525 Frederick St., a structure city officials said posed an immediate risk to public safety.
The garage had been experiencing a progressive structural collapse throughout October. On Oct. 30, portions of the building fell into the alley behind the property. The city’s chief code official deemed the structure unstable, prompting staff to order an emergency demolition to prevent further collapse.
Because of the urgency, the city contacted multiple contractors but received only one response. Allegany Wrecking of Hagerstown was the only firm available to complete the demolition on short notice and carried out the work shortly after the incident.
The cost of the demolition was $15,000, which was paid through the city’s property abatement account. This fund is used when dangerous structures require immediate intervention to protect residents and public space.
Council members approved the emergency procurement without opposition. The action formalizes the city’s response and ensures the demolition is recorded in the city’s financial and procedural records.
City staff said the quick removal prevented additional hazards and reduced the risk of the collapse spreading to nearby properties or causing injury in the alley.
