An old hospital that has stood empty for years is getting a new life.
The city of Garland is working on a deal to transform Vista Hospital into an inpatient and outpatient mental health clinic, adding at least 100 jobs.
"The building's proximity to Baylor Medical Center means it will likely never redevelop as a full service hospital, so being able to attract another medical use here is going to provide much needed jobs, revenue for the city and additional tax revenue and added services," Deputy Mayor Pro Tem John Willis.
The old hospital is hidden behind growing weeds and graffiti in the 2700 block of West Walnut Street.
"Vacant buildings like this often times attract graffiti, tagging and other things of that nature, so having a use in there really helps to keeps things like that down and really helps bring up the neighborhood," Willis said.
Joann Cross walks her dog near the vacant lot, which has gone downhill for the past two years.
"I think with more security, more traffic, it should be really good," she said.
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A company plans on investing $15 million to buy and remodel the old hospital to bring it up to standard.
There were some security concerns because the facility is near an elementary school and nursing home, but city leaders said there would be controlled security.
"I think it will be wonderful, especially around here," Cross said. "There are a lot of empty shopping centers and, hey, we can all use some more jobs."
As part of the deal, the company would receive a five-year city tax abatement, among other incentives. The city is working on a special-use permit process with the company.
