ANDERSON — After sitting empty since 2011, the Wigwam complex has attracted a client to move into the facility.
Marc Hackett, executive director of the Jane Pauley Community Health Center, said Friday it is finalizing details to lease 25,000 square feet in phases over five years.
The health center currently has two mobile units on the west side of the famed building that will be used as a temporary location.
Hackett said the temporary clinic will open by May 30, and they have already hired staff and health providers.
“Right now we don’t have a timetable for moving into the Wigwam,” he said. “We’re working with a local architect and contractors.
“We’re making a long-term commitment,” Hackett continued. “It’s located in an area where there is a need. We can serve the underserved population.”
People from the area can walk to the facility, which is important, he said.
“My hope is to be in the Wigwam complex by the end of the year," Hackett said. “We’re working with BWI on the revitalization of the building.”
Gary Hobbs, president of BWI, said work on the renovation of the two-story portion of the Wigwam complex, to the south of the gym, is expected to start in August.
Hobbs said the renovation work will be done in two phases.
“This is a big move,” he said of the pending lease with Jane Pauley. “It’s a big first step. This is significant for the community. It should be exciting news.”
Hobbs said the theme for the renovation and opening of the Wigwam complex is centered on health, wellness and athletics.
“We’re in discussions with other potential clients,” he said.
“This is finally going to happen,” Hobbs said of the reopening of the iconic complex.
Earlier this year, the Jane Pauley Community Health Center received a $1.2 million Health Resources and Services Administration Service Area Competition grant.
BWI and Pinebrook Properties took up the banner to save the Wigwam in 2014 when another group of investors with Wigwam Sports Entertainment (WSE) decided not to go forward with a project.
BWI obtained the complex from the Anderson Community School System at no cost with the provision that the gymnasium would be preserved.
ACS officials provided $630,000, the estimated cost of demolition, to BWI. The city of Anderson provided $100,000 to restore and maintain the Wigwam.