Published on October 29, 2025
On Tuesday, Denton Excavating began removal of three properties along Merriam Drive. These properties were purchased by the City in 2024 during open sessions of the City Council (March 25, 2024 and July 22, 2024). On July 14, 2025, the Council awarded the demolition bid to Denton Excavating, a Merriam-based company.
The City paid above appraisal value and covered relocation costs for the previous business owners. Rigdon proudly remains a Merriam-based business at 5111 W. 51st Terrace — their experience is featured on page 5 of the Fall 2025 Highlights Magazine. Todd and Julie Baker (Baker Marble/ETI) have retired.
Despite claims this was sudden and without purpose, the area surrounding these properties was clearly identified by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Feasibility Study as part of the Upper Turkey Creek floodplain improvement area. The study has been publicly available on the City’s website since 2015.
The City continues to partner with USACE to address the floodplain in downtown Merriam. USACE expects to deliver 65% design plans in early January 2026, which will launch the next phase of public discussion and planning for the downtown area.
➡ Learn more about ongoing projects that are Moving Merriam Forward.