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LOOK: Demolition of the Kirwan-Blanding complex has begun

by: Mrs. Tyler Thompson04/20/20@MrsTylerKSR

Photo by Jason Hope

While much of the world is on hold right now due to the coronavirus pandemic, demolition has begun on an iconic part of the University of Kentucky campus. The Kirwan-Blanding dormitory complex is finally being dismantled after sitting vacant for over four years.

Some pictures from Jason Hope on Facebook:

Photo by Jason Hope

Photo by Jason Hope

Photo by Jason Hope

https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10107594702162910&id=12929804&__cft__[0]=AZU64m8t0yHz3X-JSOEYcNdA54csMiXQwI8X6qhsZFkjunvYM3GubXZBahzm7qaJbYGSpfvTjrspNRNP94JeXeBXKA8zEw-1LFd7ZecJxI6apw4XcAhCbU7yrt85yKJPvF1nf4AtKJM7IS8NXmhVy2Qu&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R

The two 23-story towers and eight surrounding low-rise buildings were built in the 1960s and sit on 14 acres. Demolition is expected to cost $15 million ($10 million from an internal loan, $5 million from private funding), which pales in comparison to the $126 million estimate to renovate the buildings to modern standards.

A map of the area, per the Herald-Leader:

Once the complex is demolished — which could take 12-15 months — UK will use the area for a new 500-bed dormitory and large green space. If approved, the goal is to have the dormitory ready for the 2022-23 school year.

Feel free to share your favorite Kirwan-Blanding memories below.

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2025-09-09