Workers install fencing around The Jacksonville Landing

The demolition of The Jacksonville Landing took another step forward Thursday as workers put up fencing around the shopping center.

The fencing is expected to be complete by Friday, James Croft, the city’s assistant director of public affairs, said Tuesday.

The fence will surround the building, except on the streetside, where the BBVA bank branch can be accessed. Locked gates will be installed on the east and west sides. 

Once the fencing is installed, the hazardous material assessment will begin and is expected to take “a couple of weeks,” Croft said.

A timeline for the rest of the demolition cannot be determined until the assessment is complete. 

Armstrong Fence Co. is the fence contractor.

The Landing was built in 1987 as a festival marketplace with shops, restaurants, entertainment and public spaces for viewing of fireworks and other riverfront events.

The city took control of the Landing in February after a $15 million settlement with Sleiman Enterprises Inc. The city owned the property while Sleiman owned the building. 

Plant City-based contractor D.H. Griffin Wrecking Co. Inc. was awarded the $1.074 million contract June 20 after a public bidding process to tear down the shuttered riverfront building.

Griffin received a Notice to Proceed from the city’s Department of Public Works on July 23 authorizing site work to begin within 10 days. 

Substantial completion of the demolition will be no later than May 28 according to the notice.

City Council legislation approving the agreement included $1.5 million for tenant lease terminations and other expenses.