Thu Sep 19 02:07:00 UTC 2024: ## Hastings Building Collapses Days After TIF Approval
**Hastings, NE** – Just days after the Hastings City Council approved tax-increment financing assistance for its rehabilitation, a portion of a downtown building collapsed Wednesday morning, leaving the future of the entire structure in question.
The building, located at 706 W. Second St., had sustained significant damage in a March 2022 fire that destroyed the neighboring Bert’s Rexall Drug building. Owners Heidy Behrens and Scot DeWitt had recently finalized a financing package to rehabilitate the structure for an estimated $1.7 million.
The collapse, which occurred near the northeast corner of the building, caused part of the east wall to fall away and the roof to drop. Passersby on the street below could see directly into a room on the top floor, now exposed to the elements.
The city of Hastings immediately responded to the incident, blocking off portions of Hastings Avenue and Second Street for public safety. The building next door at 710 W. Second St. was evacuated as a precaution.
A structural engineer will now assess the damage and work with city officials to determine the future of the site. The collapse raises concerns about the feasibility of the planned rehabilitation project and the future of the entire structure.
The owners, who had planned to convert the building into condominiums and commercial space, had hoped to revitalize the downtown area. However, the collapse casts a shadow over their plans and raises questions about the future of the site.
First Piper 