Alaska City Declares High-Rise Unfit for Occupancy

An Alaska high-rise building has been declared dangerous and unfit for human occupancy.

The city of Fairbanks has sent a letter to the owner of the Polaris Building to begin repairs by March or start tearing it down.

The former hotel in downtown Fairbanks has been vacant for more than 10 years.

City officials say the building’s interior has been subject to leaks, ice and mold.

It’s owned by Anchorage developer Marc Marlow, who can appeal the city order.

The city last year estimated demolition would cost $3.4 million and significantly affect the Fairbanks North Star Borough landfill.

City Mayor Jerry Cleworth tells the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner that if Marlow does not demolish or renovate the building, the city may seek state or borough money to help demolish it.