The owner of the old Seattle Times Building, 1120 John Street, asked the City of Seattle Landmarks Preservation Board for emergency permission to demolish part of the building.
The request comes after squatters have repeatedly broken into the building. Several fires have started in the building creating unsafe situation for firefighters.
The building is boarded up and posted with "No Trespassing" signs.
The Times building was purchased by Onni John Street LLC for $29 million in 2013, according to property records. In 2015 the property was valued at $41 million.
A requirement with building permits is for the developer to work with the Landmarks Preservation Board on what parts of the building will need to be preserved. Today the developer will brief the Landmarks Preservation Board on their plans for a partial demolition.
The building was constructed in 1931. The exterior walls and roof of the building were given landmark status in 1995. They will be integrated into the developer's apartment project.
Cox Media Group
