E.F. Young Hotel under Collapse Zone order

The City of Meridian established a collapsed zone in downtown yesterday between 6th and 7th street on 25th Avenue. After inspectors reported a concern for public safety, city officials felt that it would be in the public’s best interest.

The E.F. Young hotel has stood on 25th Avenue since 1931 but concerns for public safety are now at the forefront because of the building’s structure. Officials say that the specific concern is the front of the building which appears to bulge towards the street.

Chief Administrator Officer, Tim Miller, explained why the city felt it was time to establish a collapse zone.

“The concern is with the roof being gone on the building”, said Miller. We’re afraid that it could push the wall out into the street and could possibly push into the building on the north. It’s a safety concern and until we can get it figured out the right thing to do is shut it down.”

A building official stated that the department is now being proactive in inspecting other historic buildings to prevent issues like the Young Hotel.

“The community development team does this every day. They do building inspections and things like that. Ultimately the property owners are responsible for what happens to it. We try to make suggestions. When it comes to a public safety matter; we want the property owners to handle it themselves. We’ll be there to support them and make sure things are safe for our citizens.”- CAO Tim Miller

Officials also tell us that the next steps in the future of the building are the hands of the owner.