BENNINGTON, Vt.— Dartmouth Health's Southwestern Vermont Health Care (SVHC), announced next steps around the redevelopment of the former Southern Vermont College campus in Bennington.

 

In March of 2023, SVHC entered into a purchase and sale agreement of the campus with Alfred Weissman Real Estate, LLC (AWRE). Since then, AWRE has been working toward the development of a five-star destination resort.

 

"AWRE has made major progress in finding the right hospitality brand partner for this project," said SVHC CEO and president Thomas A. Dee. "While we can't speak on their behalf, we want our community to know that plans are advancing. We're supportive of their direction and we believe this project will have an immensely positive impact on Bennington and our entire region."

 

The proposed five-star resort would include both fine and casual dining, a beauty and health spa, a fitness/wellness center, special events venue and other amenities. The project also includes an extensive historic restoration of the Everett Mansion for use as luxury accommodations and fine dining.

According to AWRE's website, the 30,000 square foot Everett Mansion will be restored to a reception lounge, wine cellar, a fine dining restaurant, spa and guestrooms. Former residential buildings will be gutted and redeveloped into luxury suites. The former gymnasium will be converted into a 17,000 square foot event and activity space.

 

The hotel will offer tennis, snow shoeing, equestrian, bowling, movie screening room, ice skating, a summer resort pool, indoor pool, miles of blazed hiking trails, mountain biking, a sporting club and even a luxury dog kennel with K9 Spa.

 

Access to the Bennington Area Trail System (BATS), at the trail heads on and around the property, will remain open to the public and available, throughout the redevelopment. Following completion of the project there will be a new dedicated parking lot.

 

"Once AWRE finalizes its brand partner — in the near future— the necessary regulatory reviews and permitting processes will get underway," said Dee. "We're hopeful this project will break ground next summer."

 

The college closed in 2019 due to declining enrollment, financial pressure, and adverse action by the college's regional accreditor concerning institutional resources.  

 

SVHC purchased the 371- acre former SVC campus in late December 2020. After the purchase, SVHC used the campus for a COVID-19 community clinic. Additionally, they partnered with Town of Bennington and the BATS to maintain playing fields for youth athletics and keep the trail system open to the public.

 

AWRE has been involved in several commercial development categories since their inception over fifty years ago, including hospitality, residential, retail, office and industrial properties. According to a press release, the firm believes in a hands-on approach when acquiring, developing and managing properties. Additionally, AWRE prides itself on getting involved within the regions where they do business by sponsoring community charities to serving on chambers of commerce.