JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Jackson Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba said the city plans to continue with the demolition of Hotel O.

The eyesore on the I-55 corridor has caused problems for several businesses and residents in the North Jackson community. From drugs and other illegal activities, Hotel O has become a hot spot for crime.

Lumumba said his administration has been in talks with the owners of the dilapidated property. He said despite the building being boarded up, the city still plans to demolish it. The mayor said the money and City Council vote are in place to make sure the process happens.

“You may have noticed that there has been some movement at Hotel O. We understand that the owners are taking steps to board up the property. But despite those efforts, the city is still intending to demolish that hotel for, not only the City Council’s vote, but the order of the municipal judge. And so, you know, I think our city attorney has been in some dialog with the ownership. We encourage that dialog to maintain,” Lumumba said.

Jackson Police Chief Joseph Wade said he believes the demolition will deter criminal activity in the area and help restore economic development projects.

Donations were pledge for the demolition of Hotel O, but there is no timeline as to when that demolition will begin.