Exterior demolition of the Milwaukee-owned Boston Store began on Wednesday. It's part of the derelict Northridge Mall on the city's north side.
Northridge has been closed since 2002, after several years of declining use. Since then, it's been the subject of vandalism and tresspassing incidents, and at least seven fires in the span of 15 months.
In December, the City of Milwaukee was awarded a $15 million grant from the State of Wisconsin to demolish and redevelop the property. The grant, funded through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, will help pay for upcoming demolition work, abate environmental contaminant abatement, utility relocation, and continued revitalization planning.
"I look forward to finally solving the safety as well as the blight issues that are associated with this property," Mayor Cavalier Johnson said at the time the grant was awarded.
In a press release, city leaders said they understand there will be a lot of interest in the demolition. They're reminding people to keep a safe distance from the site to ensure safety and prevent potential hazards.
People who live nearby said it's about time something is done about the eye sore on the north side.
"We used to come to this mall when it was still open, so when it closed, it was sad. But now, that they're tearing it down, it's greatly appreciated by all Brown Deer residents," Glenn Zielinski said.
Zielinski's lived near the Northridge Mall for nearly 25 years. He said he's not sure what he'd like to see replace the mall.
The demolition appears to be causing controversy already. TMJ4's Jenna Rae spoke to several members of Engineers Union Local 139 outside the mall who were picketing Wednesday. They said the workers hired to tear down the mall are making less than the industry standard wage for such a job.
"We've been told that the workers are not getting paid the fair, standard wages and benefits. The wages would be $49.21 to run the equipment, plus about $28/hour for benefits," Mike Ervin said.
Ervin's the organizing director for Local 139.
"What are you being told that they're [the workers] are being paid right now?" Rae asked.
"We're being told they're being paid anywhere from $25 to low $30s with minimal to no benefits," Ervin responded.
The workers doing the demolition at Northridge were hired by H.M. Brandt, which was contracted by the city of Milwaukee to do the job.
We're told the workers are not part of Local 139.
We've reached out to H.M. Brandt about the wage claims and are waiting to hear back.
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