Rockledge leaders have confirmed that the long-shuttered Rockledge Regional Medical Center will be demolished by the end of this year. The process is expected to begin in October, with the main hospital building coming down as early as late December.

The 298-bed facility permanently closed its doors on April 22, shortly after Orlando Health acquired it from Steward Health Care. The hospital had become unsafe and unsalvageable following years of neglect, including a bat infestation, unpaid contractor bills, and legal battles tied to Steward’s broader financial troubles. Originally opened in 1941 as a 10-bed hospital, the site had long served as a local healthcare hub before its decline.

What’s Next for the Site?
City Manager Brenda Fettrow explained that Rockledge is working on an agreement with Orlando Health to transfer ownership of the property to the city. Once finalized, City Council will review and vote on the deal.

The property will remain zoned for medical use, with no plans to rezone for other types of development. While the city does not intend to build a new hospital itself, officials noted that the site could one day be redeveloped by another health system to replace the former medical center.

Demolition Done Right
At the Sept. 24 community meeting, planning director John Cooper reassured residents that the city and Orlando Health are coordinating closely to ensure the demolition is carried out safely and with minimal disruption.

“The city is not just on top of it but in control of the situation,” Cooper emphasized. “Step by step, everything is being done the right way.”

Source:  Florida Today