Big Changes Coming to Former Riverside Hospital Property

Demolition on areas of the former Riverside Hospital property might begin by the end of the week, according to Trenton City Administrator Jim Wagner.

"As soon as they complete all the paperwork the permit will be issued," Wagner said.

Structures on the property set for demolition are the church building and the boiler room. Both are separate structures from the main building.

The property owner Iqbal Nasir promised to use the main building for several medical-related facilities in February including ideas for long-tern acute care and traumatic brain injury.

An abatement was completed on the structures to remove all harmful contaminants including asbestos in May.

Trenton resident Wendy Pate lives near the former Riverside Hospital. Pate was pleased to hear progress was being made Monday, but unhappy with the slow process.

Pate said grass on the property goes uncut for several days. 

"The grass has not to date been cut since July 3, after I had to complain since I wanted it to look nice for the fireworks and it was only half cut for the street fair," Pate said.

Several weeds on the property were recently removed after being a source for complaints by neighbors for the past four years.

"So, things are progressing slow, yes, but hopefully forward speed and with quality work," Pate said.

Wagner echoed Pate's sentiment by saying he too was pleased with the progression of the project.

"We finally see some movement," Wagner said. I don't know that that's satificatory for everyone, but we do see some movement."

Wagner added the demolition, once begun, would not have an impact on the surrounding area and would cause minimal traffic concerns. The project is expected to take about 10 days to complete.