The demolition of two homes along Virginia Avenue could begin at the end of December, making way for a sweeping redevelopment project along the avenue's 600 block.

The project is expected to cost East Lansing $3.3 million and calls for the demolition of all 24 homes along the avenue's 600 block. In their place, 39 homes and condominiums would be constructed. These new developments would be targeted at families with children because the block borders three East Lansing schools.

The homes slated for demolition, at 601 and 673 Virginia Ave., are among eight properties already acquired by the city, said Stephanie Gingerich, a community development analyst. The city has five purchase agreements for other properties, she added.

"We are really focussed on getting to the next step and hoping to have a couple of the houses demolished as soon as Dec. 31," Gingerich said.