St. Scholastica Convent Starts $2.3 Million Construction Project

ST. CLOUD -- Construction on the new $2.3 million St. Scholastica convent building is underway.

Convent directors invited members of the public to learn more about the project and tour the building site today (Tuesday).

The original facility was built in 1890 and served as St. Cloud's second hospital.

In recent times it housed elderly nuns. Last summer the convent decided to demolish the building because it has been deteriorating.

The new facility is about 13,800-square-feet or nearly half the size of the previous.

St. Scholastica director, Deb Bakken says although it's not as big as the former building it functions the way they need it to.

The new building will have quality windows and in-floor heating added to make it run more efficiently.

In addition, the library and fitness center will be expanded. Bakken says the sisters have all been a huge part of the planning process.

The building is expected to be completed in December 2013.