INDIANAPOLIS—On Thursday, the Distressed Unit Appeal Board held a meeting to discuss the Gary Community School Corporation’s updates as it relates to the Viable Deficit Reduction Plan and the School Improvement Fund Plan. During the meeting, the School Corporation outlined their plans for the demolition of the decaying school structures in the community.

State Senator Eddie Melton (D-Gary) released the following statement in response to the updates from the Gary School Corporation:

“Last session, I fought hard to make sure the Gary School Corporation had the support it needed to begin addressing the blighted school infrastructures in our community,” Sen. Melton said. “I’m happy to see plans for the demolition and rehabilitation of old school buildings moving forward. Our students and communities deserve safe, clean learning environments, and I’m pleased that we are making real strides to provide that.

“I would also like to acknowledge the help lent by the Gary police and fire departments in getting this issue addressed. By providing data illustrating the public safety risk that these old, abandoned buildings pose to the community, the Gary School Corporation was able to receive much needed support to assist them in tackling this issue.

“This is just the beginning of the work we have to do, and I look forward to continuing to work with the City of Gary and the Gary School Corporation to bring positive change to our community.”