ROCKLEDGE, FL — The former Rockledge Regional Medical Center, a nearly 300-bed hospital that has stood for decades, is slated for demolition as part of a city-led redevelopment initiative. The Rockledge City Council is moving forward to take possession of the property as the first step in dismantling the deteriorating structure.
The hospital, which closed its doors in April 2025, sits on approximately 8.1 acres in central Florida, about 50 miles east of Orlando. According to Florida Today, the city’s plan calls for demolition to begin as early as October and aims to have the building cleared by the end of the year.
“The building has reached a point where it cannot be salvaged safely,” said Rockledge City Manager Brenda Fettrow. “Our focus is on redeveloping this site responsibly while maintaining its medical zoning.”
The once-thriving facility fell into disrepair after a series of ownership changes. Initially part of Dallas-based Steward Health Care LLC, the hospital faced financial distress, which ultimately led Steward to file for bankruptcy last year. While Orlando Health later purchased the property, the company concluded the building could not be rehabilitated.
“Orlando Health will transfer the property to the city,” Fettrow told Florida Today, noting that “there is little interest in changing [the medical zoning] parameters.”
The Rockledge facility has a history spanning nearly 85 years, beginning as a 10-bed private hospital founded by Eugene Wuesthoff. Over the decades, it expanded and eventually became part of the Wuesthoff Health System, which was sold to Health Management Associates Inc. in 2010 before being acquired by Steward Health Care in 2017.
Local reports highlight that the building has suffered extensive deterioration, including structural issues and a major bat infestation, making immediate action necessary.
City officials say that following demolition, the land will be prepared for future medical development, potentially attracting new healthcare services to the community. “This site has served Rockledge residents for generations,” said Fettrow. “Redeveloping it ensures that it continues to contribute to local health services for decades to come.”
The project is expected to generate temporary construction jobs and may open opportunities for modern medical facilities, helping Rockledge meet growing healthcare demands along Florida’s east coast. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through city communications for updates on demolition schedules and traffic advisories around the site.
Originally reported by Brian Taylor, Senior Editor in CD Recycler.
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