Empire Apartments Debris To Be Cleaned Up Soon

By Robert Thomas

It’s a question many are asking in the community and that is when is the debris from the fire which destroyed the Empire Apartments (located on the corner of Caribou Street West and Fourth Avenue NW) last year will be cleaned up.

It’s a question Councillor Heather Eby asked Administration on Monday afternoon.

Debris from the destroyed Empire Apartments lays across the sidewalk and just into the street five months after it was destroyed by fire - MJ Independent photo

Director of planning Michelle Sanson said the debris should be cleaned up shortly once the building’s ownership and their insurer come to a final agreement.

“We have a demolition permit they are working with their insurance company to clear up their (claim). They’re close (to cleaning it up) they’re just waiting for the final OK from them,” Sanson replied.

In the early morning hours of December 21st of 2022 a fire started in the Empire Apartments which resulted in a total loss of the structure as well as damage to at least one adjacent property.

Although there were no deaths or injuries for the tenants there were four minor injuries to firefighters who fought the blaze.