Highlands Hospital will receive a $1 million state grant to support its proposed conversion of the former Zachariah Connell Elementary School into a multi-purpose community health facility, according to Senator Pat Stefano (R-32).
The grant, announced today (November 23), will be used for the conversion of the vacant 47,000 square foot building at 700 Park Street in Connellsville into a Women’s Health Center, an Autism school, and a multi-specialty physical/behavioral health center.
Stefano said the grant is funded through the state Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), which provides funds for community and economic development projects throughout the state.
“This is an excellent investment by the state in a project that will convert a deteriorating former school into a health center that will provide a wide range of specialized services for local residents,” said Senator Stefano. “The community will benefit from this project in several ways, not the least are the quality jobs created by the health center.”
“Highlands Hospital is a champion for bringing our area high quality health care for over 30 years and is a leader in the field of behavioral health. This new facility will build and expand upon this proud legacy,” Stefano concluded.
The Zachariah Connell Elementary School closed in 2013, primarily due to the school’s need for extensive renovations. Highlands Hospital purchased the school from the Connellsville Area School Board in 2015 for $207,000. The conversion project will include substantial work including asbestos removal, replacement of roof and floors, electrical and plumbing upgrades, redesign of work spaces, and equipment installation.
CONTACT: Ben Wren (717) 787-7175