Covenant Health's plans for redeveloping Riverside School on Second Street NW as a possible seniors' facility, is making progress including investigating aspects of its historical significance.--NEWS PHOTO GILLIAN SLADE
gslade@medicinehatnews.com@MHNGillianSlade
Covenant Health’s plans for redeveloping the now vacant Riverside School is progressing, including aspects of its historical significance.
“We continue to collaborate with the Heritage Resources Committee to review historic documents and historical elements that may be of significance to the community,” said president Derrick Bernardo.
“A feasibility study is underway and visioning sessions will follow to explore all possible options and opportunities for seniors housing and care in the community of Riverside.”
About 18 months ago Covenant Health purchased Riverside School on Second Street NW for $850,000 with plans to demolish the school and build a seniors’ living facility on the site. About six months ago plans were set in motion to also purchase a laneway on the property that had a purchase price of $71,875. It had never been used as a lane but was designated as such on city documents.
“Progress to date includes the purchase of the lane adjacent to the site, and work is ongoing to consolidate this property,” said Bernardo.
In June 2017 the bell rang for the last time at Riverside School. The financial cost of maintenance of the building contributed to the decision to sell. The sale was approved by the Ministry of Education and proceeds from the sale were placed in SD76’s capital reserve fund, Mark Davidson superintendent SD 76 told the News in July 2018.
Covenant Health has donated the playground equipment that was on site to The Higher Ground Christian School. It has also put in place a rental agreement with the City of Medicine Hat for the onsite rink and its maintenance.
