City of Trenton Completes First Demolition of the Year

Council and Mayor Collaborate to Keep Community Safe

Trenton N.J. – The City of Trenton completed the first demolition of a dilapidated privately-owned property of the year. The building has been demolished, with no damage to neighboring homes.

“We are working closely with residents to identify properties that could pose a threat to the safety of Trentonians and we are taking them down. I am thankful to the Trenton City Council for their collaborative spirit in tackling quality of life issues,” said Mayor Gusciora.

The dilapidated property, located at 214 N. Warren Street in the North Ward of Trenton, had been ordered in 2009 by the Palmer administration to make critical repairs to its structure.

The repairs did not occur, which resulted in the right-side structural wall collapsing onto the street outside—compromising the roof—and leaving the house and local area vulnerable to water damage, the elements, and potential animal infestation.

In October 2022, the Division of Inspections was alerted to these structural issues. The Division gave the owners a notice to demolish or repair the structure, with a deadline of January 2023. The repairs again did not proceed, and the structural damage continued to worsen. In such emergency situations, the city is permitted to proceed with demolition.

In collaboration with local constituent Sheri Stanford and Councilwoman Jennifer Williams, Mayor Gusciora assured local community members that this demolition would be handled quickly, safely, and securely. The property was demolished quickly after rapid mobilization of city workers.

“Thus far, I can sincerely say I appreciate your professionalism and every effort you’ve made to keep me up to date, to make yourself available, and to give me your time and your reassurance. I can’t describe what that means to me,” Stanford stated.

North Ward Councilwoman Jennifer Williams affirmed, “This was a very dangerous situation as this property was in close proximity to a pedestrian sidewalk near a busy intersection with Perry Street. It could have collapsed at any point and injured someone or damaged other property, let alone its being an eyesore and nuisance for Ms. Stanford and the neighborhood. I am thankful for the quick action of our city and Mayor Gusciora to handle this situation promptly and safely.”

Under the Gusciora administration, approximately 300 dilapidated and dangerous properties have been demolished, which paves the way for new homes, businesses, or community spaces.