A vacant library on Bainbridge Avenue in Fordham has been vacant for 15 years. The building and the street in front of it has graffiti, garbage, and other extensive damage.

Council Member Oswald Feliz says the building has severe structural issues, including asbestos and rotting walls. He tells News 12 it will cost about $80 million to repair it all.

Local leaders and community members are brainstorming its future. Suggestions include a community center, youth sports facility, or affordable housing. Some residents have other ideas, like a space to help the homeless or even a new park.

Feliz says he is working with the city to secure funding and prioritize redevelopment. Community Board 7 says a 2021 plan for a computer testing and job center never came to fruition, but they’re hopeful new discussions will lead to progress.

The next step is finding developers to make the community’s vision a reality.