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Renovation of Edward White Hospital to Provide Affordable Senior Housing in St. Petersburg

The newly renovated Edward White Hospital, now transformed into affordable housing for seniors.

News Summary

The former Edward White Hospital in St. Petersburg is being transformed into 71 units of affordable housing for seniors. This project also aims to include a community health center managed by Evara Health, addressing both housing and healthcare needs. The St. Petersburg Housing Authority has secured necessary funding and plans to prioritize local residents and families in need. The renovation, facing challenges from past hurricane damage, is set for completion by spring 2026, with affordable rent capped at 30% of income.

St. Petersburg, Florida – The former Edward White Hospital is undergoing major renovations to become 71 units of affordable housing tailored for seniors. This conversion project not only addresses the pressing need for senior housing but also aims to establish a community health center that will provide essential medical services to both residents and the larger community.

The healthcare services at the new facility will be managed by Evara Health, ensuring that residents have access to vital health resources. Additionally, the St. Petersburg Housing Authority (SPHA) is relocating its administrative offices into the refurbished six-story building, which spans 121,000 square feet.

Michael Lundy, President and CEO of the SPHA, noted the importance of securing funding for the renovation project, which recently received an infusion of cash from the St. Pete City Council. In early October, the Council approved an additional $5.9 million for the construction, contributing to a total investment of $3 million from the city.

Lundy emphasized the historic significance of Edward White Hospital as a former community health hub, highlighting that it had sat vacant for a decade. The building’s centralized location near downtown and its accessibility through public transportation make it an ideal site for the new senior housing project.

Units will be available on a first-come, first-served basis to seniors aged 62 and older. Income limits will be capped at 80% of the area median income, which translates to around $63,000 for a household of two. Rent will be structured to not exceed 30% of adjusted income, and discounts for seniors will be factored in.

Initial priorities for unit allocation will favor local residents, individuals experiencing homelessness, and working families. Given the demand for affordable housing, it is anticipated that the application process will attract significant interest, with expectations of at least 500 sign-ups within the initial days of opening applications.

Currently, there are approximately 8,000 families on the SPHA’s Section 8 waiting list and another 1,500 on the public housing waiting list, underscoring the urgent need for accessible housing solutions in the city.

The renovation has faced challenges, particularly damage from hurricanes that affected the basement and electrical systems. Demolition efforts started in December 2024, and the project is now in its first phase. Despite encountering unexpected issues within the building, construction workers are making steady progress.

Future plans for the site include a new facade, modern updates to the interior, and the addition of murals to enhance its visual appeal. The anticipated completion date for the SPHA offices is spring 2026, while senior residents are expected to start moving in by fall 2026. Overall, the transformation of Edward White Hospital is a positive step towards alleviating the affordable housing scarcity faced by seniors in St. Petersburg.

The total cost for the project is projected to be nearly $44 million, funded through a combination of county support and loans. As the renovation progresses, community stakeholders are optimistic that this initiative will significantly improve housing options and healthcare access for seniors residing in St. Petersburg.