MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Milwaukee's former Northridge Mall, now known as Granville Station, is seeing progress as the initial phase of demolition concludes.

In a Wednesday, May 1 morning press release, Mayor Cavalier Johnson confirmed that the city is moving into the next phase with the release of a public bid for asbestos abatement and the demolition of the remaining structures.

The progress follows nearly five years after raze orders were issued for the site, which includes around 800,000-square-feet of buildings. The city secured full control of the property in January after overcoming legal challenges with the former owner.

"Residents and businesses on the northwest side have waited too long, and this is a significant step forward for this transformative effort," Mayor Johnson stated. He also expressed gratitude towards Governor Tony Evers and his administration for their continuous support in the large project.

HM Brandt, Inc., tasked with the demolition, began tearing down the former Boston Store on March 20, completing this first phase earlier than planned.

According to the press release, half of the contractors involved are certified small, women and minority-owned businesses, contributing to site security, environmental sampling, and site cleanup.

Additional information can be found by checking out Milwaukee's official webpage for Granville Station.