East Lyme — Some cleanup activity has begun on the grounds of the Starlight Inn at 256 Flanders Road in Niantic.

The former hotel buildings are due to be razed as part of the $142 million Interstate 95 Exit 74 Interchange project.

“The removal of some materials is expected to begin next week, demolition is slated for June, and completion is anticipated by the end of July,” Connecticut Department of Transportation Communications Manager Josh Morgan said two weeks ago. “Please keep in mind this schedule is subject to change.”

A large white van and a staff of three from Bestech Incorporated, a company that provides asbestos removal, lead abatement, demolition and environmental services, has been spotted parking on the premises for the past couple of weeks. The workers have been removing large trash bags filled with materials from inside the structures.

Bestech was contracted by the state to begin safety measures typically done in preparation for demolition.

“I think most residents will be very happy that the removal of the motel and gas station is finally ready to begin,” First Selectman Kevin Seery said when he received word from the state. The motel’s buildings, which have sat empty and boarded up since the property was declared condemned and all residents displaced last year, have been notorious for drug and prostitution activity over the years, as well as a murder in 2018.

“There is no indication that they’ll require traffic control,” Seery added, regarding any potential for disruption when wrecking machines arrive.

According to state DOT Strategic Communications Manager Shannon King, actual demolition will begin in a few more weeks.

“The demolition of the Starlight Inn in East Lyme — acquired for the I-95 On- and Off-Ramp Safety Improvements at Route 161 in East Lyme — is scheduled to begin at the end of June,” King said in an email statement, later adding that a Mobil gas station next door will be included in the demolition. “The demolition is expected to take approximately four weeks and will have minimal traffic impact.”