Lawrence commission approves demolition of historic home on Rhode Island Street

The Lenexa City Commission took decisive action on May 20, 2025, approving the demolition of a structurally unsafe historic property located at 1007 Rhode Island Street. The decision came after a thorough review by city staff and the State Historic Preservation Office, which confirmed that the building posed a significant safety risk due to its deteriorating condition.

Lynn Braddock Zollner, the historic resources administrator, presented the case, highlighting that the property, constructed around 1900, had been deemed architecturally significant for the East Lawrence neighborhood. However, upon inspection, it was found that the walls were collapsing, and the historic stucco was the only thing holding the structure together. Given these findings, city officials agreed that immediate action was necessary to ensure public safety.

The demolition required a state preservation law review due to the building's historic status. The review concluded that while the demolition would harm the historic context, it was justified as there were no feasible alternatives to preserving the structure. The property owners, Troy and Marcy Wallen, plan to replace the demolished building with a new single-family home, which will maintain the streetscape of the historic district.

The commission unanimously supported the motion to proceed with the demolition, emphasizing the importance of safety and responsible planning in historic districts. This decision reflects the city’s commitment to balancing preservation with community safety, ensuring that future developments align with the neighborhood's character. The commission's actions pave the way for a new beginning on the site while addressing immediate safety concerns.