Vision 3 Architects completes $45 million revitalization project in Providence

Providence Community Health Centers (PCHC) has provided medical care to 20% of Providence residents within a network of seven clinics of medical and dental services throughout the city for over 40 years. In 2003, PCHC had a need for a larger facility and purchased the 3.5-acre site at 355 Prairie Ave., which included the historic buildings of the Federated Lithographers, a printing company, and Beaman & Smith, a tool shop. The site was declared a brownfield site and the original buildings had been abandoned for years, prompting PCHC's commitment to revitalize the South Providence community. PCHC's vision is to serve the community by providing economic development through creation of jobs, and through the development of a comprehensive medical campus to serve the healthcare needs of the residents of this community, many of whom live within walking distance of the site. Designed by Vision 3 Architects, the campus encompasses an entire city block, and was developed over an 11-year, four phase period. The completed development includes a 41,750 s/f, LEED Silver Certified, primary care health center, a 50,000 s/f medical office building which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and was renovated and restored in compliance with National Park Service guidelines, and a 4,800 s/f retail building which is leased to a pharmacy. The new campus is a $45 million transformation of a dilapidated mill complex into a new medical and health service campus that supports 200 staff and the community, encouraging a green and smart environment. Vision 3 Architects' design goal is to be functional and cost-efficient while respecting each project's unique geographical, historical, and demographic context. Environmentally sustainable methodology is introduced from the start, as its commitment to be responsible stewards of the environment is at the forefront.