Southeast regents to consider demolition of Washington School for parking

After a summer of demolition and paving along Broadway, Southeast Missouri State University will consider tearing down another building to create space for parking.

The board of regents will meet Thursday to decide whether to demolish Washington School to build parking for the Autism Diagnosis and Treatment Center.

Washington School, on North Fountain Street, was built in 1914. In 1999, Washington and May Greene schools closed as students moved into the newly constructed Barbara Blanchard Elementary. The university bought the facility from the Cape Girardeau School District in 2000.

Southeast is using the building for storage, and utility costs range from $30,000 to $40,000 each year. Funded through the Lewis and Clark Initiative, Southeast budgeted $435,000 for demolition and parking construction.

The regents will also consider a resolution ensuring all property donated to the university is directed toward the University Foundation to avoid legal, administrative and financial difficulties.

The regents are meeting via teleconference in University Center at 9 a.m. Thursday.

Pertinent address:

One University Plaza Cape Girardeau, MO