The wrecking ball continues to smash a wide swath through our beautiful city. Portland is HOT real estate wise and developers are targeting long neglected properties, easily dividable lots and/or prime locations. Demolitions and construction are everywhere. Whether you agree with the 'progress' or not there is no denying that the times they are a changing.
These events give me lots of opportunity for taking interesting photos. I do this not only to document the destruction but to also educate the public on what is going on around them and to try and tell the story of the house through visuals.
Be aware that there are hazards of such procedures and if not done correctly they might have an effect on your health. Lead paint, asbestos, mold... these are but a few of the toxic elements you have a right to be concerned about.
Interesting masonry detail on the chimney.
Portland has a real problem with low income housing and we have more than our share of homeless because of many factors... and one of them may be getting torn down just a few houses down in your own neighborhood.
Personally I find the demolitions sad when I think of all the time and labor involved in design and construction, and the stories these structures could tell if the walls could talk; easily destroyed within the span of just a few short hours.
Built in 1902 - Demolished 4/18/2016
