The City of Windsor has initiated the process of acquiring a minimum of 45 run-down or unoccupied properties in the Sandwich Town area. Mayor Drew Dilkens and council members disclosed this development on Thursday at Indian Road close to the Ambassador Bridge, surrounded by numerous abandoned homes that have deteriorated over several decades.
Before the announcement commenced, a deceased raccoon was cleared from a yard. Dilkens emphasized the city’s commitment to revitalizing the west end and urged residents to remain patient, stating, “We will persist in our efforts.”
During the announcement, Dilkens had to fend off hornets that emerged from a nearby nest. The decision for expropriation was unanimously made by the city council in July during a closed-door meeting, with notices being served to property owners on Monday.
Most properties on the expropriation list, as per information from CBC Windsor, are owned by the Canadian Transit Company or a company trustee, which oversee the Canadian side of the Ambassador Bridge. However, specific details regarding the costs to the City of Windsor and agreements with property owners were not disclosed by Dilkens.
Acknowledging the long-standing issue of dilapidated homes in the west end, the city emphasized the negative impact on the community and Olde Sandwich Towne. The city’s chief building official has previously ordered emergency demolitions of houses, including 17 residences flagged as safety hazards in July.
The expropriation list comprises both developed properties and vacant lots, excluding any within the Ambassador Bridge’s proposed plaza expansion project. CBC has sought a response from the Ambassador Bridge regarding the matter.
Further updates are anticipated.