Johnston Hall To Become In/Out Patient Substance Abuse Center

In a press release from the City of Faribault yesterday afternoon, Johnston Hall in Faribault looks to have new life as a substance abuse treatment center. According to the release construction on the 1888 built hall could begin later this summer and will take 12 months to complete.

According to the press release:

"The City of Faribault and Allina Health are pleased to announce that a deal has been reached for the acquisition, rehabilitation, and reuse of the historic Johnston Hall building, which is situated on the District One Hospital campus. Twin Cities-based developer Jason Palmby and Sisters of Serendipity PLLC are partnering to acquire and rehabilitate the structure for use as an intensive inpatient and outpatient substance abuse treatment which includes 35 beds for lodging. The facility will include a cafeteria, meeting and therapy rooms, lodging units, and a canine training/therapy program. The development partners are working with the City of Faribault, Rice County and the Department of Health and Human Services to obtain the necessary zoning, support service, and financing approvals. Construction is scheduled to start late summer 2020, with work estimated to take 12 months."

Johnston Hall was built in the spring of 1888 from Faribault blue limestone and was home for the Seabury Divinity School, which trained missionaries to work with the region’s American Indian peoples. Johnston Hall’s local and state significance derives from its association with Bishop Henry Benjamin Whipple, who founded one of the state’s most prominent religious and educational movements.