ABC 12 – WJRT – Flint, MIDemolition almost done at Buick City

Demolition almost done at Buick City

(02/22/12) - It was once home to one of Mid-Michigan's largest employers, but now, it's hard to tell what once stood at Flint's Buick City site.

Final demolition of the remaining two final plants is underway. It will take a couple more months to complete.

When work is complete, it will mark the end of what was a huge part of Flint's history. Bonnie Rose has lived across the street from Buick City for about 30 years. "It's been hard to watch it come down. At times it can almost make you cry."

Fletcher Wadelle worked at Buick City for more 40 years. He retired in 2006 and describes the sight as a ghost town. "That factory over there is where I worked, it's been torn down. Factory five right here is one of that last one's left. It's hard to see."

Rose says she remembers when the streets surrounding Buick were filled with people and lots of activity. "The traffic was so busy up and down the street. You could almost set your clock to the traffic."

As the demo work continues, there is still hope for new jobs there. Once demolition and cleanup are done, re-development could start. Local economic leaders say they are still hopeful to bring new business to the area.