Metrolinx to level 12 more buildings along LRT route in Hamilton

Metrolinx has plans to demolish a dozen properties along Hamilton's proposed LRT route.

The vacant buildings will start being knocked down as soon as next month, pending permit approvals, according to the transit agency.

The work "will ensure community safety and prepare for future construction" and  "reduce the risk of fire, vandalism and illegal activities in these properties," Metrolinx stated in a media release.

It comes after 21 other properties along the LRT corridor were levelled. Two other buildings near Main Street East and Kenilworth Avenue were also brought down and the cleanup is expected to be completed this week, the crown agency stated in a media release.

Activists had perviously called for some of the sites to be used as affordable housing. But Metrolinx, which owns the buildings, said they were too unsafe to be repurposed.

The 12 sites slated for demolition include:

Metrolinx says utilities will start being disconnected at the buildings this week. Businesses and people living nearby will be notified before demolition begins.