Thomas O’Brien from HYM Investments and Rev. Jeffrey Brown from My City at Peace shared exciting plans for the old Carney Hospital site during a recent meeting with community leaders. They aim to transform the 12-acre campus on Dorchester Avenue into a hub for health care and housing.
In several meetings over the past month, including sessions with the Fields Corner Civic Association and Codman Square Neighborhood Council, O’Brien and Brown listened to community feedback. Their main goal is to establish a new health care facility, alongside new housing options, potentially totaling up to 500 units.
“Building a health care center is our top priority,” Brown stated, reflecting the community’s strong desire for better health services. This area, with about 200,000 residents, deserves accessible medical care, he emphasized.
The Carney Hospital was shut down in August 2024 after Steward Health Care went bankrupt. Now, Apollo Global Management, the current owner, has teamed up with O’Brien and Brown to find a new purpose for the site.
They are drawing on insights from a 33-member working group formed by Governor Maura Healey and Mayor Michelle Wu. The group, which included health experts, highlighted the impact of the hospital’s closure on local health. Their report underscored the urgent need for new health services in the community.
O’Brien envisions constructing a 350,000 square foot health center, possibly on the old emergency department site. Plans also include a 150,000 square foot educational building for nursing programs, 200 housing units for seniors, and 300 family apartments. Green spaces connecting to Dorchester Park and parking facilities are also part of the vision.
While the team hasn’t secured a healthcare partner yet, they believe that established systems in the region will be interested. “We think a reputable hospital system will want to operate the new facility,” O’Brien said, hinting at healthy competition for the site.
Community feedback has identified critical needs, including imaging services, urgent care, pediatrics, and mental health support. Brown noted that many residents are eager for a comprehensive care center that offers a wide range of services.
To create a sense of community, the redevelopment plan also includes open spaces and potential retail areas. “It’s about rebuilding the neighborhood feel that existed before,” O’Brien remarked.
The team plans to continue engaging with community members this month. They aim to file a Letter of Intent with the Boston Planning Department early this year, hoping for permitting completion by the end of 2026.
Community input will shape this project, demonstrating how local voices can influence significant changes. The team launched a website, www.2100DotAve.com, to keep everyone updated on the project’s progress.
The revitalization of the Carney site represents not just a change in landscape but also an effort to improve the well-being of the Dorchester community. With fresh health services and a blend of housing, the future looks promising for this long-neglected area.
