Edward White Hospital to Become Affordable Senior

On August 27, 2024, St. Petersburg officials broke ground on a project to convert the former Edward White Hospital into affordable housing for seniors. The renovation will transform the 121,000 square foot site into 71 apartments for seniors aged 62 and older, specifically targeting those earning 80 percent or below the area median income. Local leaders highlighted the importance of repurposing the facility, which had been vacant for nearly a decade, to meet the growing need for affordable housing. The project has a budget of $39 million, funded through contributions from the city, the county, and a local bank grant.

In addition to housing, the Edward White Campus will feature amenities such as a dining hall, a gym, and a community room, enhancing the quality of life for residents. Officials expressed the project's significance in revitalizing the community and honoring the legacy of Ed White, the first American astronaut to perform a spacewalk. Expected to open in two years, this initiative reflects a proactive approach to addressing senior housing challenges in St. Petersburg. Community leaders are optimistic that this development will lead to improved living conditions for local seniors.