Realty Building owners: Downtown businesses and residents can return next week
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - Downtown Youngstown businesses and residents displaced by the deadly explosion at the Realty Building and subsequent demolition could return to their homes and workplaces as early as next week.
A release from Live Youngstown and Yo 47 says people can reestablish their routines beginning the week of August 19, pending approval from the City of Youngstown.
The Realty Building's property management and ownership announced that the building's demolition is expected to be down to the 4th floor by the weekend, the benchmark that would make it safe for businesses and residents to resume life as normal.
Once the building is officially down to four floors, displaced occupants of International Tower can return to their homes and the Double Tree and Bistro 1907 will be allowed to reopen for business.
According to the release, the DoubleTree Hotel will welcome guests back beginning August 19.
"It is with hope for the future that we remain committed to the Realty Tower site. We have every intention of continuing our legacy of paying homage to Youngstown's history while moving it toward a vibrant future," Live Youngstown/YO 47 said.
The group believes the redevelopment of the site will be an extensive process.
Until plans for the site's redevelopment are solidified, the property will be leveled and remain vacant.
