Washington County Commissioners announced a project that has begun in Meadowlands using the Blight Mitigation and Demolition Fund. Right now, three properties on Pike Street in Meadowlands are being torn down for future development. The properties at 500, 506 and 516 Pike Street have been described as abandoned and unsafe. They have also been deemed structural hazards. According to Commissioner Chairman Nick Sherman, these properties encapsulate the whole reason that the Blight Mitigation and Demolition Fund was conceived. The properties are recognized as prime targets for commercial revitalization and new visual appeal will be welcomed. Sherman said that it can be possible that someone coming off of Interstate 79 could see the potential for them to relocate their business to Washington County as they are on their way to visit the Washington County Fair. The fund is also available to individual owners should they meet the requirements for participation. According to Sherman, the whole reason for the fund is to bring properties that have long been off local tax rolls back to life and contribute once again. He said it is a method to have Washington County “shake off the rust.” The biggest property to participate in the Blight Mitigation Fund is the Washington Mall. $5.9 million has been dedicated to help tear down the structure to make way for an RV dealer and a Costco store.