Three Northern Additions of Colonial Gardens to be Removed

In an effort to stabilize the two-story historic portion of Colonial Gardens, located at Kenwood Drive and New Cut Road, the three northern additions of the building must be removed immediately. Recent inspections by the Office of Construction Review determined the additions to be in a state of structural failure with threat of imminent collapse.

Asbestos removal has been completed at the site in anticipation of demolition beginning later this week by contractor Wooldridge Construction Group. The removal of the additions will include work to secure the newly exposed areas of the remaining building to be weather-tight. Underhill Associates will begin working with the city on design plans for the future of the site.

“The Iroquois Neighborhood Association sees the demolition of the non-contributing portion of Colonial Gardens as a step in the right direction,” said Stefanie Buzan, Preservation Committee Director for Iroquois Neighborhood Association. “It will help to stabilize the historic portion of the building and make it safe for the community until the Underhill Associates begin their renovation. We look forward to Underhill's completing the project.”

The Colonial Gardens building is an iconic feature located across from Iroquois Park in south Louisville. Citizens sought to designate the structure as a local landmark in 2008. To foster redevelopment, the property was purchased by the city in 2013.

Underhill Associates, which has lead the development and rehabilitation of Westport Village and the historic Germantown Lofts, will bring their expertise to Colonial Gardens with a proposed adaptive reuse project. 

“We are excited to begin moving the project forward to determine the final look and design,” said Colin Underhill. “This stage of the work will help us not only begin to mold the image of the project, but also hone in on the end users. Colonial Gardens will be a special place for all in the City to enjoy.”

Redevelopment will establish Colonial Gardens as a key anchor to south Louisville and Iroquois Park once again.