The City of Gary, working with the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority and contractor McDonagh Demolition, is moving forward with tearing down the Genesis Convention Center and garage at 401 Adams St. and the former Gordon's Department Store complex on Broadway, the city announced.
Structural demolition of the Genesis Center's main building begins this week, with the parking garage to follow in early November. At the Gordon's site, preparation, utility disconnects and dewatering continue through October, with structural demolition scheduled for late October and November.
A second phase covers two long-abandoned landmarks. Fencing and abatement work at the former City Methodist Church, 549 Washington St., began the week of Oct. 12, and abatement at the former St. Mary's Mercy Hospital, 540 Tyler St., begins Oct. 23. Both sites are scheduled for complete demolition and site restoration by Aug. 24, 2027, and the City Church historical marker will be preserved and relocated.
Mayor Eddie Melton said holding onto unsalvageable buildings has cost taxpayers millions and stalled progress, and that clearing them protects public safety while making room for new housing, local businesses and modern civic spaces. The city says the cleared blocks are envisioned for a public safety facility, mixed-use housing and retail, an upgraded Gary Metro Center transit hub and a central civic plaza.
Road and sidewalk restrictions are in effect along Washington Street, Adams Street and nearby alleys during the work, while access remains open for the GEO Academy, Genesis Towers and Gary Police Department operations.
