Local Residents Raise Concerns Over Abandoned Construction Projects
Abandoned construction projects have been an issue in Florida for quite some time now, and the locals are getting fed up. Multiple construction projects across Central Florida, spearheaded by developer D32 Invest, have been left unfinished. This has created frustration among local residents. In areas like Palm Bay and Deltona, stalled developments have become unsightly, prompting calls for action from nearby homeowners.
The City of Deltona is now moving to foreclose on one of these properties after it accrued more than $250,000 in code violations. While municipalities can enforce stricter development agreements, they often hesitate to do so, concerned about deterring future business investments.
It has been determined that the issue is more widespread, with additional stalled projects in Volusia County. D32 Invest has allowed these projects to fall into disrepair, prompting growing outrage from nearby residents.
One Palm Bay resident says the neglected properties need to be cleaned up because “it’s horrible.” Another resident says “It just looks like a bunch of abandoned houses.” A frustrated Delton resident says D32 Invest should “sell it, finish it, or get the heck out.”
The good news is that cities do have leverage, but it doesn’t seem like they’re doing enough. However, one attorney said the City of Deltona is taking action and is ready to foreclose.
D32 Invest did say it is currently working with both the existing bank and the City of Deltona to finish the project. The company hopes to resume work and finish the projects in the near future. The company is collaborating with the city and its lender to restart construction, though there is no timeline in place yet.
It remains unclear why D32 Invest halted progress on these sites. The company has not provided an explanation, although contractors often abandon projects due to the following:
- Financial issues. If the contractor underbid the project or isn’t getting paid on time, they might stop work to avoid further losses.
- Disputes. Conflicts over scope, timelines, or payments can lead to walkouts.
- Lack of resources. Contractors may not have enough workers or materials to finish the job.
- Permitting or legal problems: If inspections fail or permits aren’t in place, work may halt.
- Poor planning. Some contractors take on too many jobs and abandon slower-paying or more difficult ones.
Abandoned developments not only look bad, but they also raise safety issues and impact local economies. While cities have tools to hold developers accountable, they often refrain from using them to avoid discouraging future investment.
Contact Us Today
Abandoned construction projects are unfortunately on the rise. Many contractors run out of money and leave projects unfinished. Some are scammers who take large down payments from clients and never return to work.
Suing a business is never an easy task, but sometimes it needs to be done. If a contractor has breached their contract, get the help you need from a Bradenton business litigation lawyer from Cahall Law Firm. We are ready to protect your rights and vindicate your business interests. Fill out the online form or call our office at (941) 281-2019 to schedule a consultation.
Source:
floridatrend.com/article/9215/cutting-corners/
