MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The City of Montgomery has completed demolition of the long-vacant Paterson School property, clearing the way for a new health and wellness center that will serve retired city employees and their families.
City officials announced that the former W.B. Paterson Elementary School site is entering a new phase of redevelopment after the aging structure was torn down as part of a broader effort to revitalize underutilized properties across Montgomery.
Originally built in the 1950s, the school educated generations of Montgomery students before closing its doors in 2007. For nearly two decades, the vacant building remained unused and became a concern for nearby residents.
With demolition now complete, the city is moving forward with plans to construct a modern health center focused on serving retired municipal employees and their families.
The planned facility will offer a variety of healthcare services, including primary care, preventive medicine, occupational health resources, wellness programs, and other healthcare services designed to improve access to care and support healthier lifestyles.
Mayor Steven L. Reed said the project will benefit both city employees and the surrounding neighborhood.
“This project represents progress on multiple fronts,” Reed said. “We are removing a long-vacant property that has been a concern for residents for years while investing in the health and well-being of the employees who serve our community every day.”
Reed said the redevelopment reflects the city’s commitment to neighborhood improvement, modernizing municipal services, and supporting the workforce that helps operate city government.
The project’s design phase is currently being advanced by Chambliss King Architects, which is preparing construction documents needed before the project can move into the bidding process.
Once those documents are completed and submitted, city officials will begin seeking competitive bids for construction of the new Premise Health Center.
The health center is part of Montgomery’s larger strategy to improve employee benefits, modernize public infrastructure, and repurpose properties that have sat vacant for years.
When completed, the facility is expected to feature updated clinical spaces and expanded healthcare services aimed at improving preventive care, promoting wellness, and supporting a healthier workforce.
City leaders say the transformation of the former school site represents a significant investment in both Montgomery’s employees and the future of the surrounding community.