Under the new On-Call Demolition Program, the SCC will enter into contracts with multiple, prequalified contractors for demolition and asbestos abatement. When the SCC determines there is a need to demolish a group of buildings, the pool of firms will have the exclusive right to compete for the work. This will allow the agency to move more quickly after acquiring properties and relocating residents.

"The SCC has an obligation to tear down its vacant and abandoned buildings as soon as possible because of the risks they pose to public safety,” said Scott Weiner, chief executive officer of the corporation. “Empty, boarded-up structures not only require continuous security and maintenance but degrade a community. This program will allow us to move far more expeditiously to improve the quality of life in those neighborhoods."

Under the customary process, the SCC generally has waited until all properties on a future school site were assembled before bidding out a demolition contract. Under On-Call Demolition, the SCC intends to move within 30 to 60 days after a small group of properties is bought and vacated.

Once established, only pre-approved contractors will be eligible for projects that are part of the program through January 2009. By establishing the pool and efficiently grouping buildings to demolish at one time, the SCC expects a competitive process that will drive prices down.

All interested contractors meeting basic requirements are eligible to be part of the pool.