Bunkie advances ‘Operation Blight Fight’ with 23 more demolitions approved

The City of Bunkie is taking a major step forward in its ongoing effort to clean up blighted properties with 23 additional dilapidated and abandoned structures now slated for demolition.

Mayor Brenda C. Sampson and the Bunkie City Council launched “Operation Blight Fight” shortly after taking office in July 2022, aiming to remove unsafe and deteriorating structures that impact neighborhoods and property values. Since then, more than 40 structures have already been cleared through cooperation between city officials and property owners.

The latest phase marks the initiative’s largest milestone to date. Bids were officially awarded recently for the demolition of 23 more properties. The work is being funded through a $250,000 grant secured by the city, with demolition expected to begin in the coming weeks.

City officials also recognized Pan American Engineers for their role in helping move the long-term project forward.

Residents are encouraged to use caution around demolition sites as work gets underway.

Structures scheduled for demolition include:

• 110 and 112 N. Ash St.
• 108, 204 and 221 N. Ash St.
• 901 Chennault St.
• 114 and 200 S. Elm St.
• 407 N. Elm St.
• 105, 107, 108 and 110 Frazier St.
• 606 and 608 E. Oak St.
• 602 S. Weir Extension
• 500 E. Magnolia St.
• 731 Evergreen St.
• 106 Chestnut St.
• 212 E. Commercial St.
• 109 N. Cottonwood St.
• 608 S. Lexington Ave.
• 905 MacArthur St.