[JHikka]

Originally Posted by mylesmalley

I'm speculating, but I bet the cost of environmental remediation played a big part in the decision as well. They know fairly accurately what it will cost, including the demolition today. Regulations change though, and construction/destruction costs increase over time. Moreover, the city had already budgeted for it. Even if it was a big expense, better to do it now where you know what you're in for than to wait a while and get stuck with surprises.

Good points all around.

Originally Posted by Vorkuta

It's only my humble opinion, but to me a giant open lot like that with the previous infrastructure removed (including remediation) is a pretty nice carrot to dangle in front of potential investors in a new building.

Heh. If only this worked in Saint John.