Demolition of Eremenko Building Set to Begin
The City of Castlegar is moving into the demolition phase of the Eremenko Building, located at 310 Columbia Avenue and 1224 3rd Street, following the successful completion of hazardous materials abatement. The contractor is scheduled to begin demolition the week of January 26, 2026. This work marks an important milestone in preparing the site for future residential and mixed-use development that supports long-term downtown revitalization.
“We appreciate the community’s patience as this project moves forward, and we want to remind everyone that businesses in the area remain open and accessible during demolition,” says Mayor Maria McFaddin. “Our downtown is an important part of our community, and this work helps prepare the site for future opportunities that support long-term development.”
The Eremenko Building was originally constructed in 1948, with an addition completed in 1968. The City purchased the property in 2021 to prepare it for redevelopment in alignment with the City’s Downtown Area Plan.
Demolition Timeline
The demolition and site restoration work will be completed in stages and is expected to take approximately four to six weeks, subject to weather and site conditions.
- Stage 1: Demolition of the building structure
- Stage 2: Cleanup and removal of demolition debris
- Stage 3: Final excavation and removal of the building foundation
- Stage 4: Site cleanup and restoration, bringing the property to street level and covering it with gravel to prepare the site for future use
Traffic and Pedestrian Impacts
Temporary traffic and pedestrian changes will be in place during demolition:
3rd Street (1200 block):
- One-way traffic will be in effect
- The eastbound lane will be closed
- Parking will not be impacted on 3rd Street
Columbia Avenue:
- The sidewalk on the west side of Columbia Avenue at 310 Columbia Avenue (across from Pharmasave) will be closed
- Pedestrian detours will be clearly marked
There will be full access to all businesses in and around the site, and impacts are expected to be minor and temporary.
Safety During Construction
The demolition area will be fully fenced. The City and contractor are asking motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists to follow posted signage and detours and to use caution while travelling through the area. These measures are in place to support safety for everyone during construction.
Construction noise is anticipated Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. All closures and detours are temporary.
The City will continue working with the contractor to keep nearby businesses and residents informed as the project progresses.
Corporate Services