Demolition of abandoned building in downtown Red Deer postponed

The Empire Building in Red Deer in June 2024. (Google Street View)

An abandoned building in Red Deer’s downtown that was slated for demolition starting Friday will remain standing for now.

The city announced earlier this week that crews would begin tearing down the Empire Building at 4909 48 St. starting Friday.

On Thursday, officials announced the demolition had been put on pause.

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“Due to some unexpected circumstances and an abundance of caution, the demolition will be postponed while the contractor proceeds with investigation and preparation work,” the city said in a news release.

“When a new timeline is determined, we will provide an update.”

The building has sat empty since a fire in October 2021 despite calls from residents to demolish it.