The eyesore is no more.

A group of Jim Thorpe residents gathered Wednesday in front of the former 204 Center Ave., now an empty lot, to toast the demolition of the half double home that was already collapsing on its own power.

“We’re excited that it’s finally down,” exclaimed Tracy Hunsicker, owner of 206 Center Ave., the other half of the duplex. “It’s been a long time coming,”

Hadley Construction Inc. won the contract in December, submitting a bid that included demolition of 204 and remediation of 206. The bid cost was $134,000.

Jim Thorpe Borough had pledged $39,500 in matching funds. The entire project, including engineering, cost $151,875.

“I’m excited, too, that I can finally start putting money into my house,” Hunsicker added. “I just wouldn’t, not with that happening next door.”

The house had been in disrepair for nearly 13 years, according to Hunsicker.

“The neighbors made sure that the borough did not forget about it,” Jessica Rights, a local Jim Thorpe resident explained. “The ‘secret campaign’ to keep the public awareness alive was really important.”

In addition to Jim Thorpe; Lansford and Lehighton have been focusing on tearing down some of these blighted properties.

“It’s more than just the blight,” Rights added. “It’s the safety of the citizens, and especially the poor family that had to live there every day, worrying about the safety of their family.”

Hadley Construction will be installing a foundation along the side of the remaining house and new siding.

The project timeline calls for substantial completion by Feb. 3 and final completion by Feb. 14, pending weather.

Jarrad Hedes contributed to this report.