Demolition of tornado-damaged homes in Holt begins Tuesday

HOLT, AL -

It's been a long time coming for Tuscaloosa County. That what residents in the Holt community say about tornado damaged homes being demolished.

The state of Alabama owns about 25 homes that were bought as part of a plan to build an interstate bypass.

Since the April 27th, 2011 tornado they've sat damaged and abandoned until this month.

What's now part of a pile of rubble was once part of many family memories for Judy Skelton. Her aunt's and grandmother's houses sat boarded up, waiting to be demolished.

Now, hope is here in the form of demolition crews. But, Skelton isn't pleased with the timeline. "I think we should be further along right now than what we are and this is part of that. I mean two years later, it's very discouraging and you know it's hindered with healing, people healing," Skelton said.

However, some believe the healing can start now that demolition is underway.

Maria Anthony said, "I think it will be a great thing and will improve the neighborhood and make people feel a whole lot better."

One local business owner, Michael Bennett said since the cleanup has begun he's seen an increase in business.

Bennett added, "It just gives the community hope. And it's just a long time coming, but it's great to see everything getting cleaned up and heading in the right direction."

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Demolition of tornado-damaged homes in Holt begins Tuesday