(La Porte, IN) - More demolition in La Porte has been approved.

The old Don George Ford buildings on Pine Lake Avenue across from Dunkin Donuts are coming down. The city’s Redevelopment Commission awarded a demolition contract for just over $45,000 at their meeting Wednesday.

City Engineer Nick Minich says the deterioration of the buildings is becoming worse and more deterioration to areas such as the already leaking roof would likely happen during the winter if the structures were not torn down by then.

“We’re seeing a lot of mold and moisture issues that probably would not be cost-effectively remediated,” he said.

No specific timeframe was given on when demolition will occur, but it’s expected very soon once all of the legal and engineering work leading up to the demolition is completed. In addition, officials are still reviewing bids from two developers interested in purchasing the parcel now owned by the city.

A restaurant with a scenic overlook of Lily Lake and a kayak launch are among the possibilities that have been mentioned for the future redevelopment of the property.