Enforcing the code of clean streets

In recent years, Richmond has seen an increase in demolitions of blighted properties that can't be salvaged and that pose a public safety hazard. Abandoned buildings and homes can be havens for drug users, dealers, or gangs members, say city officials. Richmond’s Code Enforcement Abatement crew is responsible for cleaning up or tearing down these properties. “A lot of people still don’t get how important and how powerful code enforcement can be in regards to eliminating blight and stabilizing neighborhoods. We’re able to bring properties into compliance which reduces crime.”  An abatement crew worker explains his job to a reporter who photographed the day for Richmond Pulse.