12/23/2025
EKU's statement on decision to demolish the Walker Building on Lancaster Ave
In 2009, under the direction of former Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) Board of Regents members and EKU leadership, the EKU Board of Regents purchased the dilapidated J. Stone Walker House. Over the past decade, EKU leadership has taken numerous steps to work with historians and community leaders to preserve the property. There were countless community leaders and historic property members who served in an advisory capacity, resulting in no financially viable solution being identified. The University sought grants and federal funding opportunities with no success, and attempted to sell the property via an auction, however, bids came in drastically under the value of the land.
Independent assessments found the building would require upwards of $3 million in repairs, making restoration financially impractical. After extensive evaluation, the Board of Regents voted in September 2024, to surplus the J.Stone Walker House and explore demolition due to safety and liability concerns. This decision did not come lightly as EKU is committed to responsible stewardship of its historic properties. EKU continued to have discussions with community members leading up to the day of demolition. Since the auction, no formal offers for purchase have been submitted to the University.
Knowing the importance of this property to the community, EKU consulted with members of the Madison County Historical Society to preserve key historical elements. The plan was to remove and place items from the house for sale on GovDeals.com. Unfortunately, on the evening of December 21, 2025, an individual broke in and stole items from the house. EKU will surplus all remaining items.
While demolition is always a last resort, the building’s condition required EKU to move forward responsibly, prioritizing safety and the effective use of University resources.
