JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – An eyesore along the Interstate 55 corridor in Jackson could soon be removed.

Hotel O has caused major issues for businesses and residents in the area, leaders said. They said it’s become a hub for illegal activity.

In early January, Jackson Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba said MDEQ requested asbestos testing for the roof of the building and that this must occur before the city can move forward with their plans to demolish Hotel O.

“MDEQ has reissued the licenses. They’ve been back out of the hotel and taken the samples, and yesterday, the samples and the associated documentation documents, excuse me, were sent to the lab that will conduct that testing. The testing typically takes about five days to get those results back. So with luck, we’ll have them back this week,” said City Attorney Drew Martin.

If tests results for asbestos come back negative, a notice to proceed with the demolition on the hotel could begin as soon as next week. If the results are positive, the process may take longer.