Powell Plaza Renovation to Provide Additional Green Space

Published on July 12, 2022

Continuing efforts to create a more pedestrian-friendly Campus Beautiful, Eastern Kentucky University has begun a renovation project in the Powell Plaza. Known as the heart of Eastern’s campus, the renovation creates more green space for outdoor activities and is scheduled for completion before students return for the fall 2022 semester. 

Rendering of Plaza Steps

The renovation has prompted the opportunity to upgrade the EKU Veterans Memorial, which is currently located in Powell Plaza. A newly designed memorial will be constructed in the Carloftis Gardens and includes a larger space and more greenery for quiet reflection. The memorial is slated to be completed in fall 2023. 

“As the president of the EKU Alumni Board and the ROTC representative, I was excited to learn that EKU is investing resources into a new memorial that honors our veterans,” said Lt. Col. (Ret.) Bob Sullivan ‘72. “The new location will be in one of the most visible spaces on campus. It will allow our veterans and guests to have a unique space to visit and honor those who have served.” 

“Over the past decade, our campus has enjoyed a gradual, yet dramatic, facelift,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “The major remodel of Powell Student Center in 2019 created more space for students to study, meet as organizations, and create lasting memories of their Eastern Experience. The renovation of Powell Plaza is just a continuation of that goal of creating exceptional spaces to learn and grow.”