On Monday, demolition began on nine vacant houses on campus.

Kevin Bame, vice chancellor for administration and finance said the project was a matter of finances.

“Due to their age, these buildings have become increasingly expensive to maintain,” Bame said in a press release. “Demolishing the buildings makes sense from a budgetary standpoint, and this will enhance the appearance of these areas.” 

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The buildings were originally constructed as private homes between 1930 and 1961, and acquired by SIU between 1965 and 1980. The university said the process should be done by the beginning of the fall semester.

The demolition will cost $317,000, according to the press release.