Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The former Bally Vaughn apartment complex on West Washington Street is a bad neighbor.

“Multiple owners promised redevelopment, but none have delivered,” said Cindy Cantwell, who lives near the property. “Asbestos removal has been attempted in the past, but not according to legal standards. Buildings were not sealed, containment was incomplete, and the work was abandoned.”

The result, she said, is a hazard, and the city is looking into its options.

“I’m just looking for ways – just the extremely vacant homes- to really send people the message that we’re done. The house needs to be torn down,” said Ald. Shawn Gregory. “Vacant and boarded-up houses. We have to find a quicker way to get to them. We don’t have the money to tear down other people’s properties and not get our money back.”

Cantwell said another effect is on Sacred Heart Griffin students getting into and out of their cars nearby.