Kansas City’s Neighborhood Services Department is launching a new pilot program aimed at preserving homes currently listed as dangerous but that are still repairable. Rather than demolishing these properties, the City is partnering with Neighborhood Legal Support of Kansas City, a nonprofit law firm, to identify homes that can be safely restored.
The goal is to transform these properties into affordable housing and protect the city’s existing housing inventory. The initiative was made possible through a resolution sponsored by Councilwoman Melissa Patterson Hazley.
"This pilot program is about changing our mindset from demolition to preservation," said Councilwoman Melissa Patterson Hazley. "Every home we save will be an affordable housing unit and a step toward stronger, more stable neighborhoods. I'm excited to see this common-sense approach take root in Historic Northeast and beyond."
Dangerous properties can pose serious risks to residents. Over the past three years, the City has spent between $8,000 and $16,000 per demolition. By focusing on saving buildings instead of demolitions, this will help reduce blight, lower enforcement and abatement costs, and preserve valuable housing resources.
“The Neighborhood Services Department is committed to preserving buildings whenever possible,” said Forest Decker, Director of Neighborhood Services. “Demolition is a last resort. We want to make sure every viable option for restoration has been explored before a structure is removed.”
The pilot program starts with 15 homes in the Historic Northeast neighborhood. It’s expected to save the City around $200,000 by focusing on repairs instead of demolitions. If the program is successful, it will expand to other neighborhoods, supporting Kansas City’s commitment to safety, affordability, and revitalizing communities.
By restoring homes instead of demolishing properties, the City is helping stabilize neighborhoods, preserve historic character, and create pathways to affordable housing. Revitalizing these properties can reduce crime, increase property values, and foster a stronger sense of pride and connection among residents.
