Some of the old Virginia bricks are torn down.

The factory began manufacturing bricks and pavers in 1890 and continued until at least 2015, when a decline in demand for its products began the process of winding down operations.

The 25-building complex, valued by the city at $1.85 million, has been renovated into what Business Outreach Coordinator Wayne Adkins calls an “eyesore” after years of neglect under the ownership of OVB Investments. However, OVB Investments was issued a violation notice by the city code enforcement department last year. Year.

Salem Building Authority Commissioner Troy Loving called for the removal or repair of dilapidated structures deemed unsafe. The city's Architectural Appeals Board then ordered OVB to demolish all but a few buildings it wanted to keep and bring them into compliance. “We're asking them to clean up the property and demolish some of the old buildings that are there to make it look better,” Adkins said.

OVB has shared ownership with an asphalt paving company. Adams Construction Co., Ltd., start planning your work. Prior to this, OVB had met with police multiple times, followed the recommendations of law enforcement agencies regarding maintaining the safety of its facilities, and was not aware of any serious incidents, according to board minutes.

“We're definitely doing this because we don't want to create a nuisance” and to stay in compliance with local ordinances, said Rick James, president of Adams Construction. “However, there are no current plans for this property.”

The only user these days is a neighboring industry, New Millennium Building Systems, a division of Steel Dynamics, which has permission to store products on the site, James said.