Eyesore of the week

Property: 500 N. Butler Blvd., Lansing
Owner: KMI Enterprise LLC Taxpayer: KMI Enterprise LLC
Assessed: $48,600
Owner says: Could not be reached for comment
Architecture critic Amanda Harrell-Seyburn says: At one time, this two-story brick building was a handsome neighborhood corner store appropriately scaled to its residential context. This is one of many traditional neighborhood stores sprinkled throughout Lansing that have all too often been lost to residential use or demolition. The neighborhood store is an integral feature of a walkable community. Walkability becomes less and less attainable with the loss of each structure. This building is an opportunity for the Genesee Neighborhood and a small business owner to re-institute a neighborhood store.

This looming brick building sticks out on the corner of Genesee Street and Butler Boulevard like a sore thumb. Graffiti and wires climb up the side, and the door is boarded-up. One side is covered with bright white paneling, as if someone started a project and then realized it was a lost cause.

— Megan Murphy

“Eyesore of the Week" is our look at some of the seedier properties in Lansing. It rotates each week with Eye Candy of the Week. If you have a suggestion, please e-mail eye@lansingcitypulse.com or call Neal McNamara at 371-5600 ex. 17.