OLD HOSPITAL BUILDING IS FINALLY COMING DOWN

The wrecking ball has been slamming in to the old brick walls of the former St. Francis Hospital building, a thorn in the side of the community for several years.

The building is remembered by many area residents as a place of birth, healing and gentle care for the dying. But after the new medical center was opened, the building, under different owners, fell into disrepair. IN addition, the vacant building attracted undesirable elements and posed something of a hazard to the neighborhood.

Now the building has new owners who plan to develop apartments on the property. With the city's help and a state grant, asbestos has been removed, and the structure is slowing disappearing.

There are high hopes that the new development will enhance the neighborhood. In any event, most folks are glad to be rid of the old building and are happy to see work finally being done in that area.