Demolition of Wooden Indian Motel to begin "as soon as possible"

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The demolition of the Wooden Indian Motel is slated to happen "as soon as possible", according to IU South Bend which closed on the property just four days ago.

Director of Communications for the university, Ken Baierl, said environmental tests are to be conducted Tuesday to test for any soil contamination. 

Those who were staying in the motel already left the property earlier in the week.

Baierl said there are no immediate plans for the property purchased for $836,000, but university officials will continue to examine the area to "best serve students, create an attractive gateway to the campus, and encourage economic development."

IUSB has not said where those displaced by the purchase have moved to or if any financial aid was given.