Saint Louis University is in the process of purchasing the former Compton Heights Hospital from Tenet.
According to Kathleen Brady, vice president for Facilities Management and Civic Affairs, Tenet closed the Compton Heights Hospital sometime in April. At the same time, Tenet made public their intention to sell the property.
The Board of Trustees was presented the opportunity to acquire the property in September. “They agreed that the University should proceed to acquire the property because of its tremendous potential,” Brady said.
SLU does not yet own the property, but the University has informed Tenet of its interest in it, Brady said.
While the former Incarnate Word Hospital property will not be used as a hospital, it could be used in a variety of ways to benefit both the Frost and Health Sciences campuses.
According to Brady, “There are numerous possibilities for re-use of the property that could benefit the Frost and Health Sciences Center campuses.”
The possibility of moving certain offices from both campuses to the building is currently in discussion. This move would open up space on the campuses for additional classroom, lab and clinical uses, Brady stated.
In his October Message, University president Fr. Lawrence Biondi, S.J. asked for suggestions about what could be done with the Compton Heights building.
According to Brady, a few ideas have already been submitted, but the President’s office is hoping to hear more suggestions.
“There are a number of responses ranging from patient care, to a residence hall, to a hotel,” said Bridget Fletcher, assistant to the president. “The ideas have been all across the board.”
Brady said the property is not far from the Health Sciences Campus and the sight of the hospital is already on the University shuttle route.
“This is a wonderful concept,” Fletcher said. “The property is in great shape and has good parking.”
“The property is in very good condition, has great visibility on Grand Boulevard and from Interstate 44, great access and parking and presents numerous opportunities to the University for re-use,” Brady said.
