Local News

Old Lincoln Hospital Site Has Potential Future

The city of Lincoln has plans for the site of the old Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital.

The hospital last year moved from the central location in Lincoln to the west side of Lincoln off Route 66. The building has been torn down and what is left is about three acres of green grass. Lincoln Mayor Keith Snyder says the city plans to turn it into an outdoor health and wellness facility.

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Are you thinking: what's the difference between an "outdoor health and wellness facility" and a standard city park? Mayor Snyder explains an outdoor health and wellness facility will specifically target anyone that would like to focus on being fit and active. He feels the having this type of park on the former hospital grounds would be very fitting.

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Not only did Lincoln receive the property as a gift from the hospital, but they also received a grant from a local foundation to look into designs for the area to be developed. Mayor Snyder says without the grant, the city may not have had the money to develop the area, and so they are grateful to have the opportunity to make something out of the land.

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Plans for the park includes a fitness loop and a walking path, outdoor fitness equipment for aerobic work, a large mound for kids to climb, and also an area with water fountains for kids to play.

Part of the city's acquisition of the property is the old hospital parking lot, which is adjacent to the property. Mayor Snyder would like to see the city sell that for residential development and use the money to help in funding the park.

The city is currently looking for public input on their ideas. The Lincoln City Council will be presented with the designs on February 28, and the Council will vote to move forward with the plan on March 5.

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