New Orleans is taking steps to address the Plaza Tower's blight, one of the city's tallest neglected buildings. WDSU reports that a City Council subcommittee has approved $2.7 million in funding for safety measures to secure the site and reduce immediate risks.

The Plaza Tower has stood vacant and decaying since before Hurricane Katrina. Now, the city is taking action to prevent further hazards from the deteriorating structure. Falling debris has already caused street closures near the building, as per WWLTV. 

Councilman J.P. Morrell emphasized the urgency, saying, "We're talking about the initial money being spent to secure the building and do what is necessary to make sure it is safe and not falling on people," according to FOX 8 Live.

The council's subcommittee has hired Renascent Inc. for the first phase of the plan, which includes thorough inspections and strengthening the tower's structure. Chief Administrative Officer Austin Wilty said, "We also have concerns about the clips holding the marble fascia, and so they would do a floor-by-floor inspection, possibly repel the building." This is a crucial step before the proposed full demolition, which is expected to cost $28 million, as reported by FOX 8 Live.

The ownership of the Plaza Tower complicates the situation, as it is held by the late Joe Jaeger's trust. If the trust does not take action to improve or demolish the building, the city is prepared to step in. This could result in the city taking ownership of the property and pursuing liens against the current owners to recover costs for abatement and demolition.

This comes as the city prepares for major events like the Super Bowl in February, increasing the need for action. It's unclear if local road closures will continue during these events.