MVHS sets deadline for interest in redeveloping former St. Elizabeth campus

UTICA — Qualified developers interested in redeveloping the former St. Elizabeth Medical Center (SEMC) in Utica have some upcoming dates they need to keep in mind. Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS) has issued a request for expressions of interest (RFEI) for the project. The health system says the question deadline is Jan. 19, and the proposal-submission deadline is Feb. 2. The SEMC campus is a 21.3-acre site located on Genesee Street in Utica. Following submission, selected respondents will be invited to participate in interviews and site tours, with developer selection anticipated later in 2026. “The RFEI marks a major milestone in the long-planned transformation of the former hospital campus and builds upon extensive community engagement, planning and environmental review,” MVHS said in a Dec. 22 announcement. The redevelopment vision calls for a predominantly residential project that will deliver needed market-rate housing while preserving the historic character of the site and enhancing the surrounding South Utica neighborhood. “This RFEI represents an exciting next step for the St. Elizabeth campus and for the City of Utica,” Dr. William LeCates, president and CEO of MVHS, said. “Through a collaborative planning process with the City of Utica, community partners and local stakeholders, we have established a thoughtful vision for redevelopment. We now look forward to engaging with experienced developers who share that vision and can help bring it to life.” The RFEI seeks proposals that emphasize new-housing development, including market-rate apartments, townhomes or single-family homes, with the potential for limited neighborhood-scale retail and well-integrated greenspace. Proposals should align with the approved reuse plan, respect the architectural context of the surrounding Olmsted-designed neighborhood, and incorporate sustainable-design practices, per the MVHS announcement. Utica Mayor Michael Galime emphasized the broader community impact of the project. “The redevelopment of the former SEMC campus is a critical opportunity for Utica,” Galime said in the MVHS announcement. “This site has the potential to deliver high-quality housing, strengthen our neighborhoods and support continued economic growth. I appreciate MVHS and our community partners for the inclusive planning process that has brought us to this point and for their commitment to ensuring this redevelopment benefits residents and the city as a whole.” The St. Elizabeth Campus Reuse Master Plan was developed through a public outreach process led by the City of Utica in coordination with MVHS and community stakeholders. A generic environmental impact statement (GEIS) was completed in 2025 under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), creating a framework that positions the site as redevelopment-ready, MVHS said. “The City has been intentional about planning for growth while respecting neighborhood character,” Galime added. “Issuing this RFEI sends a strong message that Utica is ready to partner with developers who are aligned with our vision for smart, sustainable and community-centered redevelopment.” The full RFEI is available online at: https://www.nyscr.ny.gov/Ads/Details/2129517. Also, supporting planning documents are available at: https://www.cityofutica.com/departments/urban-and-economic-development/planning/St-Elizabeths-Re-Use-Master-Plan/index