Hy-Vee Incorporated started demolishing properties last week in Jefferson.

Hy-Vee officials closed on four properties around its targeted area for its new facility just north of the downtown square and recently started demolition.  Building Inspector Mike Wright says Hy-Vee has a local contractor doing the demolition as one of its first steps in the construction process.

The areas that are being demolished are 301 and 307 North Vine Street and 304 and 306 North Wilson Street.  It is to make room for the parking lot which will be shared by the extension office.

Wright explains that Hy-Vee had 20 days from last Wednesday to demolish all four properties and they are expected to be done by next week.

City Administrator Mike Palmer says preliminary work is being done to start its water main improvement project before the anticipated construction start date of next spring to build the new Hy-Vee facility.