Hazardous houses finally demolished in SW Houston neighborhood

HOUSTON – Residents in one southwest Houston neighborhood are getting the results they've been asking for after a long wait.

For some time, they've asked lawmakers to do something about hazardous houses that they believe pose a danger to their community. On Tuesday, their concerns were heard.

Those hazardous houses are being torn down in the Ridgemont subdivision at the South Beltway at S. Post Oak Road.

"I'm happy about it as I'm tired of seeing the kids going there," said Lillian Fobbs.

She and her sister live across the street from the house that was once a daily eyesore. Her homeowners association spearheaded the neighborhood improvement, telling Local 2 it's taken them at least two years to get to this point -- a work in progress to improve the neighborhood and keep people safe.

"More safe for my residents," said Maria Morales, with the homeowners association. "There are two schools nearby and it's going to be safer for them."

She thanks Council Member Larry Green of District k for helping with the lengthy process. The councilman says that properties like this attract trash dumping, stray dogs and aren't good for the neighborhood.

"City legal gets involved, try to contact homeowner...try to get them to take care of the issue," said Green.

When they can't get ahold of the owner though, they get a lien on the property, tear it down and hope to recoup their expenses.

For Fobbs and other residents it's a wish come true.

"I love my neighbors and I know they're happy about it," she said.

Council Member Green says the process will continue until all of the designated structures have been demolished.

A demolition on a second house in the same neighborhood is set for Wednesday on East Ridgecreek Drive.