Jonesboro Tackles Crumbling Bank Building: A City's Commitment to Public Safety and Downtown Revitalization

In a proactive move to address a pressing public safety concern, the city of Jonesboro, Arkansas, has taken decisive steps to stabilize and secure the old Citizens Bank building. Collaborating with structural engineers and building professionals, the city is working to safeguard the surrounding area and pave the way for the building's future restoration.

Securing the Intersection, Stabilizing the Structure

The city of Jonesboro has been actively engaged in finding solutions for the old Citizens Bank building, which has posed a potential safety risk to the surrounding area. In a recent development, the city has completed the construction of a protection wall aimed at providing safety for the First Horizon Bank located across the street.According to Jonesboro Mayor Harold Copenhaver, the city is now focused on stabilizing the precast sections and panels of the Citizens Bank Building. City officials are working closely with engineers to design the necessary stabilization work, with the goal of having a plan and an estimated timeline for completion by early next week.

Prioritizing Public Safety and Downtown Revitalization

The city's primary concern is to ensure the safety of the public and support the thriving businesses in the downtown area. To this end, the city plans to send a cost estimate for the stabilization work to the parties associated with the bank, along with a prompt deadline to secure a contractor for the prescribed work.Mayor Copenhaver emphasized that any city funds spent on the project will be documented and billed to the building owners. However, the city is prepared to take immediate action if the building owners do not respond to the recommended course of action.

Addressing the Intersection Closure

The city's efforts to secure the Citizens Bank Building come after a recent closure of a portion of Main Street. On September 25th, the city shut down part of the street after a city council member noticed a potential safety concern. This closure has disrupted the flow of traffic and impacted the surrounding businesses.The city's commitment to resolving this issue is evident, as they are working diligently to stabilize the building and reopen the intersection as soon as possible. This proactive approach demonstrates the city's dedication to maintaining a safe and vibrant downtown area.

Collaboration and Transparency

The city's collaboration with structural engineers and building professionals is a crucial aspect of the ongoing efforts to address the Citizens Bank Building. By working closely with these experts, the city is ensuring that the stabilization work is designed and executed in a manner that prioritizes public safety and the long-term viability of the structure.Furthermore, the city's transparency in documenting and billing any city funds spent on the project to the building owners showcases its commitment to responsible stewardship of public resources. This approach instills confidence in the community and underscores the city's dedication to finding a sustainable solution.

A Promising Future for the Citizens Bank Building

As the city of Jonesboro continues to navigate the challenges posed by the old Citizens Bank Building, its proactive and collaborative approach offers hope for the structure's future. By prioritizing public safety, supporting downtown businesses, and exploring viable options for stabilization and restoration, the city is demonstrating its commitment to revitalizing this important landmark and enhancing the overall vitality of the community.