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The following statement was released today in response to Gov. Bill Graves' decision to support the proposed demolition of three properties the university owns on Ohio Street in Lawrence.
We appreciate the governor's decision to authorize the demolition of the vacant and run-down properties the university owns on Ohio Street.
The governor's decision was informed by a comprehensive array of information and public comment. Five public hearings during the past 14 months have covered various aspects of the properties and the university's proposals. All relevant issues have been fully and fairly developed, discussed, considered and resolved. We believe that the governor's determination that there is no feasible and prudent alternative to the demolition of these dilapidated properties is in the best long-term interest of the entire community, including the university and the neighborhood.
We recognize that this has been a long and difficult process for many, and we appreciate the perspectives of those who have raised concerns regarding the university's plans. At this point, we would like to move forward, and we do so with a reaffirmed commitment to continue to work with the entire Lawrence community.
• We will actively consult with the community to ensure that the setting on Ohio Street is attractive during the period between demolition and construction.
• We will actively consult with the community as architectural designs are developed for the area.
• We will respect the environs of the historic Usher House and historic Spooner Hall during demolition and construction.
We believe our plans for the area will enhance both the university and the neighborhood, and we look forward to working with the community to achieve that kind of mutually beneficial result.
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