Willard Drug Treatment Center Reuse Plan

The Seneca County IDA proactively engaged MRB Group to assess the redevelopment potential of the Willard Drug Treatment Center (DTC) campus following its closure in 2022. Specifically, the IDA sought elements of design, cost estimations, and financial feasibility analysis, which were not provided during the initial redevelopment analysis conducted by Empire State Development.  

MRB Group and sub-consultants (EDR) met with the IDA to discuss project needs and timelines, offering suggestions based on our experience for a comprehensive and efficient approach. The resulting Highest and Best Use Study draws on first-in-class data resources for historic trends and projections, as well as current analysis of financial, economic, and demographic conditions. The neglected condition of the campus despite the IDA’s preservation efforts necessitated engineering, architectural, and environmental reviews to illuminate salvageable and unsalvageable buildings and inform their potential reuses. The Study includes an executive summary and a Site Disposition Action Plan, which outlines clear and understandable tasks, roles, resource allocations, funding sources, and timelines that the IDA can consider implementing.  

Additionally, MRB Group and subcontractors facilitated two public engagement sessions, which provided input on the community’s redevelopment wishes. The Team incorporated this feedback into the Conceptual Site Master Plan, ensuring that reuse of the Willard DTC campus will maximize community support and benefits. The Seneca County IDA has contracted with MRB Group for additional work to advance this project. 

Big Idea

Assess the redevelopment potential of the Willard Drug Treatment Center campus