Community Leaders Signal Start of Demolition at Former Winona Hospital Site

INDIANAPOLIS – Mayor Greg Ballard was joined by community leaders today at the former Winona Hospital site to mark the start of demolition on the structure. The hospital, abandoned seven years ago and later taken over by the City, will no longer be a problem property for the surrounding neighborhoods.

“We’re taking on the city’s largest eyesores, and Winona Hospital, which has long-served as an impediment to neighborhood growth, is certainly on the list,” said Mayor Ballard. “Transformative redevelopment plans are already in the works for this site. Demolition today means a boost for revitalization efforts taking place throughout this area.”

The city is actively discussing plans with The Children’s Museum to redevelop the property in a way that supports both the museum and the neighborhood.

“We are pleased and delighted to play a role in transforming what has been an eyesore and safety concern in our neighborhood into a future community asset,” said Dr. Jeffrey H. Patchen, President and CEO of The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. “I would personally like to thank the Museum’s Neighborhood Development Working Group, a Museum sub-committee composed of leaders of the six surrounding neighborhoods, Ivy Tech, area schools, local business leaders and other community stakeholders for their support in finding a positive solution that benefits the community and improves the quality of life for all.”

Demolition is being paid for with funding made available by an $8 million Housing and Urban Development grant with a grant from Neighborhood Stabilization Plan funds. South Bend-based Heartland Environmental Associates prepared the property for demolition, including removing asbestos, mold, medical waste and a 20,000-gallon underground fuel tank.  Denney Excavating, the lowest bidder for the project, will be tearing down the building conventionally with heavy equipment due to environmental concerns. The building is expected to be down by Oct. 31, with debris removed and the site graded for redevelopment by mid-December.

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Paula Freund
Press Secretary
Office of Mayor Greg Ballard – City of Indianapolis
paula.freund@indy.gov; C: (317) 464-7112
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