A part of Bossier History is being torn down and rebuilt to make way for the future.
Part of the former Bossier Medical Center is undergoing demolition as property owner Willis-Knighton Health System finalizes plans for the property off Airline Drive in Bossier City.
Marilyn Joiner, director of marketing and public relations for Willis-Knighton Health System, said the demolition is partial and is preparing for revitalization of the property.
The system is currently waiting on renderings and final details.
“We've been going through everything very closely,” Joiner said. “I think (the revitalization) will make the people of Bossier proud.”
The hospital operated as a publicly funded facility before Bossier City sold it to Christus Schumpert Health System in 1999 after voters ratified the move. Christus Schumpert closed the hospital in 2002. Smaller, independent health care providers had operated in the hospital until 2009.
Willis-Knighton bought the property in March.
At the time of the purchase, officials released a statement saying the property would “be a welcomed part of a vibrant, growing community.”
The release also stated at the time, “The property has been an important part of the lives of many families in Bossier, and its purchase by Willis-Knighton assures that it will not be torn down and that its mission will remain health-related.”
Bossier Medical Center began as Bossier City General Hospital, but the current facility was built in 1976 after voters approved a one-cent sales tax to finance construction.
