After receiving zero takers for the restoration of Gabe’s Tower, even after an extended deadline, the City of Owensboro says they are officially initiating the demolition process.
City Manager Nate Pagan said bids for demolition should go out in January.
Even though one person asked to tour the Gabe’s Tower property before the Nov. 21 deadline was up, that person did not submit a proposal to restore the 175-foot tower.
“The condition and status of the building — we didn’t see how it would be feasible for anyone to [develop that property],” Pagan said. “Someone came to inspect the tower and didn’t submit a proposal.”
Because of Gabe Towers’ height and close proximity to residential and commercial property, Pagan isn’t sure yet how the demolition will unfold — whether it’s imploded or demolished by a wrecking ball will be decided by professionals. Bids for demolition will be advertised in the upcoming future. The City has set aside at least $600,000 for demolition, but it could cost more.
“We’re not experts on demolitions of this type,” Pagan said. “Speculations are open-ended at this point.”
Pagan said a timeline for demolition won’t be put in place until a bidder is selected.
