Ascension Wisconsin is exploring whether the historic St. Mary’s Hospital building on Milwaukee’s East Side could be converted into affordable apartments.Built in 1910 and now known as the Heritage Center, the building at 2320 N. Lake Drive is now used primarily for administrative purposes and is largely vacant, according to Ascension.
“Working with elected officials and community stakeholders to help address the need for housing in the area, Ascension is exploring a new chapter for the historic Heritage Center building on the Ascension Columbia St. Mary’s Milwaukee Campus,” an Ascension spokesperson said. “Because neighborhood fit and community alignment are priorities, we are taking a deliberate, thorough and inclusive approach; no final decisions or predetermined plans have been made. We are actively initiating a phased, collaborative, local engagement process, and ongoing due diligence is underway to understand our options. We look forward to working closely with city officials, community leaders, and local clergy to gather their vital input as we shape a shared vision for the stability and vitality of the community.”...
Leo's notes: Former hospitals can be difficult and expensive to redevelop, but their scale, established infrastructure and location within existing neighborhoods can also make them unusually valuable housing opportunities. The larger lesson is to look beyond vacant lots when identifying future workforce housing sites. Hospitals, schools, churches and other underused institutional properties can provide substantial infill opportunities—and early partnerships among property owners, municipalities and housing developers can help ensure these sites remain community assets rather than long-term vacancies...
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- - Volume: 26 - WEEK: 38 Date: 9/14/2026 1:52:07 PM -