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Proposal would ban homeowners from using plywood on abandoned houses

PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh is looking at banning plywood to keep people out of abandoned houses.

The new proposal is pushing a more expensive alternative to plywood.

The proposal wouldn't change plywood that's already up, but it would ban plywood for future use in boarding up doors or windows.

Instead, the legislation calls for owners of abandoned houses - including banks and mortgage holders to use polycarbonate, which is clear plastic sheeting.

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Councilman Dan Levelle sponsored the bill.

Council will consider it on Wednesday.

Levelle says the shatterproof plastic would look better, would help keep trespassers out, and would be safer for police - who would be able to see inside abandoned properties.

"If it provides safety to the neighborhood and the people who may even loiter inside of the building," said resident Robin Woods.

The downside is the cost: the plastic sheeting can cost four times as much as plywood.