Crewe backs grant support to rehabilitate vacant Pedmont Geriatric building as rural health equity center

Council voted to support an application seeking up to $1 million in targeted DHR funding (no town match required for that grant) to help rehabilitate a historically significant, vacant Pedmont Geriatric building into a rural health equity center.

The Town Manager described a larger estimated project cost (roughly $2.8 million total to fully renovate) and outlined a strategy of stacking multiple grants (planning, hazard mitigation and other sources) so the town itself would not provide the full capital. He said the plan includes partnering with regional health and academic institutions and forming a new entity to own or operate the rehabilitated building; transfer of the property from the state would require General Assembly action if the project proceeds.

Council approved a non-binding resolution of support; the motion did not commit town funds. Council members asked about project risk if additional partners or matching grants do not materialize, and staff said grant timing is staggered and they would not obligate further town resources unless matched funding and an operating entity are in place.

Implementation notes: staff will continue outreach to potential partners (rural health centers, universities and nonprofits), pursue planning grants that can be stacked with the DHR and other funds, and monitor timing for any required legislative steps to transfer property ownership.