Using a new state law passed in 2009 (SB1094), the city hopes to initially clean up 50 vacant, blighted buildings that have plagued neighborhoods. Under the program, property owners are given two choices: either fix up the building and get someone in it, or demolish it. Those who comply are given tax abatements on repairs and improvements and refunds on building permits. Those who don't face misdemeanor criminal charges for letting their buildings continue to sit empty. Click here to read the full story from the Virginian-Pilot.