RDA designates four Oshkosh Avenue properties as blighted to clear asbestos and pursue CDBG demolition funding

The Oshkosh Redevelopment Authority unanimously approved Resolution 25-03, declaring several properties on Oshkosh Avenue blighted so the city can pursue asbestos abatement and demolition funds.

The resolution covers properties listed as 1226 and 1236 Oshkosh Avenue and two vacant parcels previously addressed as 1232 and 1240 Oshkosh Avenue. City staff said the designations are necessary to use CDBG funds for asbestos removal and structure demolition and to clear the parcels ahead of planned Oshkosh Avenue expansion projects.

Staff described the two occupied buildings’ recent uses — one formerly a bar with residential space above and another used as a secondhand store with living space in back — and said the intervening land parcels are currently vacant. The staff presentation noted the parcels could be marketed for redevelopment after demolition and right-of-way work related to the Oshkosh Avenue expansion.

On costs, staff said the city has received an asbestos inspection quote of slightly more than $5,000 and estimated asbestos remediation at roughly $20,000–$30,000 and demolition in the $50,000–$75,000 range; staff said the city will try to use city departments where possible to reduce external bid costs.

RDA members said coordinating the demolition with Wisconsin Department of Transportation work and bridge reconstruction could reduce impacts on businesses and residents and make the overall project more efficient. With no public comment present, the authority closed the public hearing, took a motion and recorded a roll-call vote approving the resolution.