Overview

The Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) has unveiled a master plan aimed at transforming the historic General Hospital Campus into a community-focused "Healthy Village." This initiative emphasizes wellness, housing, economic opportunities, and community services within the Boyle Heights neighborhood.

Spanning 30.8 acres, the campus includes a notable 19-story building that has been largely vacant since medical services were moved to the adjacent LA General Medical Center in 2008. The revitalization plan seeks to honor the legacy of the hospital while addressing the needs of the community.

Key details

  • The master plan aims to create a "Healthy Village" centered on wellness and community services.
  • The General Hospital Campus is located in Boyle Heights and covers 30.8 acres.
  • The main building is a 19-story structure that opened in 1934 and was damaged in the 1993 earthquake.
  • Medical services were relocated to the LA General Medical Center in 2008, leaving the historic hospital mostly unoccupied.
  • In 2018, Hilda L. Solis introduced a motion for a feasibility study on the building's adaptive reuse.
  • The motion for the feasibility study was unanimously approved by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.
  • Solis highlighted the hospital's historical role in providing care to low-income residents.
  • The master plan reflects input from residents, community partners, and stakeholders.
  • It aims to enhance access to housing, wellness, economic opportunities, and open spaces.
  • In January 2023, the Board of Supervisors authorized a public-private partnership with Centennial Partners for the project.
  • Centennial Partners is a joint venture between Primestor Development and Bayspring Real Estate Partners.
  • Project director Giovanna Araujo emphasized the commitment to adapt to community needs as the project progresses.

Context

The historic General Hospital has served as a vital healthcare facility for many residents of Los Angeles County over the years. Its closure and subsequent vacancy have raised concerns about the future use of the site, prompting the county to explore innovative ways to repurpose the space for community benefit.

What happens next

The implementation of the revitalization plan is expected to unfold over the next decade, with ongoing community engagement to ensure that the evolving needs of residents are met.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific timeline for the project, funding sources beyond the public-private partnership, and the exact services that will be offered in the revitalized space have not been confirmed.