Citywide Blight Blitz: 60 Structures. 5 Neighborhoods. One Massive Cleanup.

Mayor Melton and volunteer contractors mark 3 years of partnership with a coordinated campaign to clear unsafe homes and spark new growth.

GARY, Ind. — Mayor Eddie D. Melton today mobilized a massive public-private coalition to launch the 3rd Annual Demolition Blitz, a coordinated campaign to eradicate blight and pave the way for neighborhood revitalization.

Powered by a volunteer army of local contractors—led by longtime partner Rieth-Riley Construction—the initiative targets approximately 60 unsafe structures across five priority neighborhoods: Downtown, Emerson, Glen Park, Midtown, and Westside.

Press Conference:
Date: February 23, 2026
Location: 674 Harrison St, Gary, Indiana
Time: 9:00 a.m.

"This demolition blitz is doing more than removing eyesores; it is resetting the foundation of our neighborhoods," said Mayor Eddie D. Melton. "By clearing these blighted lots, we are removing safety hazards and signaling to residents and investors alike that Gary is ready for new growth. We are incredibly grateful to Jim Wiseman and all our volunteer partners who step up year after year to invest in our city’s future."

U.S. Rep. Frank J. Mrvan stated, “Thank you to Mayor Melton, all the officials with the City of Gary and the State of Indiana, as well as the leadership of Jim Wiseman, a lifelong supporter of the City of Gary, for bringing together contractors and volunteers to support this local initiative to eliminate blight, promote public safety, and enhance economic opportunities in our region.”

A Model of Public-Private Partnership

Now in its fifth year, the blitz represents a unique collaboration between the City and regional industry leaders. While the visible demolition occurs over several intensive weeks, the City of Gary invests 10 months of strategic groundwork to ensure execution is seamless. This includes rigorous structural inspections, legal clearance, environmental abatements, and state-level coordination.

"Our industry thrives on building things up, but sometimes you have to clear the way to make progress possible for our children’s future," said Jim Wiseman of Rieth-Riley Construction, the lead partner for the initiative. "The spirit of collaboration among these contractors remains stronger than ever. We live and work in this region, and we’re proud to donate our resources to help the City of Gary move forward."

“I was born and raised in Gary, so I’ve seen its resilience and its steady journey of renewal up close. Being part of these demolition efforts is about honoring that progress—helping clear the way for continued growth and a bright future. We’re blessed to be a blessing and proud to stand with Gary as it continues to rise.”
- Chip Lee, President, C. Lee Construction Services, Inc.

Z-Force Transportation, LLC and Gary Property Development, LLC proudly announce their continued commitment to supporting the City’s demolition and revitalization efforts through the hauling and responsible handling of clean fill materials designated for backfill use in the basements of municipal demolition projects.

As a family-owned business with deep roots in Gary for more than 30 years, our organization is honored to play a role in the City’s ongoing transformation. Contributing these demolition initiatives reflects our long-standing dedication to environmental responsibility, operational excellence, and community progress. Owner David Zenere states “Having maintained a presence in Gary for decades, it is incredibly meaningful to witness real-time changes that are making the community stronger, safer, and better for future generations.”

The Volunteer Coalition

The City of Gary extends its deepest gratitude to the volunteer contractors donating time, heavy equipment, and expertise to this effort:

• Rieth-Riley Construction (Lead Partner)

• Hasse Construction

• C. Lee Construction

• Superior Construction

• Biesen Excavating

• Macallister Equipment

• R & D Construction

• Lake County Highway Department

• Z-Force Transportation

Get Involved

The City of Gary is committed to urban revitalization, public safety, and economic development under the leadership of Mayor Eddie D. Melton. Through strategic partnerships and community-focused initiatives, Gary is reclaiming its status as a hub of innovation and opportunity in Northwest Indiana.

About the City of Gary

Under the leadership of Mayor Eddie D. Melton, the City of Gary is committed to urban revitalization, public safety, and economic development. Through strategic partnerships and community-focused initiatives, Gary is reclaiming its status as a hub of innovation and opportunity in Northwest Indiana.

Media Contact:
Steve Segura,  
Chief Communications Officer  
ofc: 219-293-0101
em:Stsegura@gary.gov  

+++

‍