CLEVELAND — Mayor Frank Jackson wants to use most of the city's $25.5 million share of federal neighborhood improvement money to tear down abandoned homes.

Jackson, in legislation submitted Tuesday to City Council members, proposes spending $14.5 million on more than 1,700 demolitions. In addition, $1 million would go to a program that would convert vacant land into community gardens and other practical uses.

The plan also calls for tax credits and loans to spur renovation efforts and money to hire building inspectors and other workers to support the new programs.

"We're trying to jump-start and encourage development," Community Development Director Daryl Rush told council members at a public hearing.

The money comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Neighborhood Stabilization Program.

The Council's Finance Committee is expected to consider the legislation next week.