Council adopts feasibility study acknowledging Bay Area Hospital housing opportunity site plan

The Coos Bay City Council voted to adopt Resolution 25-27 acknowledging a feasibility study and preferred site plan for a possible housing development on surplus Bay Area Hospital property. The study, completed with state grant support, identifies a potential layout that could accommodate roughly 146 dwelling units plus commercial space and trails, but it does not commit the hospital to build. Chelsea (city planning staff) explained the study covers financial feasibility and infrastructure needs, and she emphasized the report is an informational tool the hospital may use when considering future development. The study identifies constraints and preliminary cost estimates, including a bridge connection and a possible pump station; staff said bridge costs could be on the order of several million dollars. Council members noted the study was funded by a Transportation Growth Management quick response grant and that the Bay Area Hospital board will review the same study at its forthcoming meeting. Council discussion also covered how infrastructure funding would be needed to make the plan viable and that the report is a planning step, not a development approval. Motion and vote: The council moved and seconded adopting Resolution 25-27; the motion passed by voice vote with no opposition. Next steps: Staff said the hospital board will consider the feasibility report at its next meeting and the city can use the study when seeking infrastructure grants or legislative support should the hospital pursue redevelopment.