From College Campus to Spa Resort: The Transformation of Southern Vermont College

Introduction

The landscape of Southern Vermont is poised for a significant change as developers embark on a project to transform the former Southern Vermont College (SVC) campus into a spa resort. This ambitious plan aims to breathe new life into the vacant property, which closed its doors in 2019 due to financial difficulties. The project represents a significant investment in the region, promising to bring economic revitalization and new opportunities to the area.

The Closure of Southern Vermont College

Southern Vermont College faced closure in 2019 due to insurmountable financial challenges. This closure left a void in the community, both economically and socially. The campus, once a vibrant hub of learning and activity, sat vacant, prompting discussions about its future use.

A New Vision: The Spa Resort Concept

Alan Weissman of Alfred Weissman Real Estate envisions a revitalized campus that welcomes guests once again, but with a focus on relaxation and wellness rather than academics. The plan centers around transforming the former SVC campus into a spa resort, capitalizing on the existing infrastructure and the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Leveraging Existing Infrastructure

One of the key advantages of the project is the presence of pre-existing infrastructure. According to Weissman, "Some of the infrastructure that would be an absolute fortune to put in is already there, from sewer to electric to water, all on site and municipal, so we’re being able to reuse some of those things." This existing infrastructure streamlines the development process and reduces costs, making the project more feasible.

Renovating and Expanding

The development plan includes renovating the "beautiful historical mansion" already on the property, while also adding new buildings. The goal is to create a resort that blends historical charm with modern amenities and accommodations.

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Navigating the Act 250 Process

The developers have already begun navigating the Act 250 process, a Vermont law that regulates land development. An Act 250 Commission hearing and site visit were conducted to determine the permissible areas for construction, considering factors such as underground utilities and soil quality. The commission aims to make a decision quickly, with the next steps involving finalizing a site plan before another Act 250 hearing.

Addressing Local Concerns

While the project has garnered support, some locals have expressed concerns about potential encroachment on the natural landscape. The initial site plan concepts included building villas along the tree lines of the property, raising worries about disrupting the area's natural beauty.

Integrating Nature

Developers have emphasized the importance of integrating the resort with the surrounding environment. Weissman stated that the existing trail system is "a great benefit to our guests but to the community in general, who will continue to be able to use them." This suggests a commitment to preserving and sharing the natural amenities with both resort guests and the local community.

Economic and Community Benefits

The transformation of the SVC campus into a spa resort holds the potential to bring significant economic and community benefits to Southern Vermont.

Job Creation

The resort is expected to create new jobs in the hospitality and tourism sectors, providing employment opportunities for local residents.

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Increased Tourism

The spa resort will attract tourists to the region, boosting local businesses and generating revenue for the community.

Community Access

The developers have expressed a commitment to allowing the community to continue using the trail system, ensuring that the resort benefits both guests and local residents.

Other Vermont Projects: A Glimpse into Community Revitalization

The transformation of Southern Vermont College into a spa resort is part of a broader trend of community revitalization efforts across Vermont. Several projects, supported by initiatives like the Capital Investment Program (CIP) and the Community Recovery and Revitalization Program (CRRP), are underway to enhance local economies and improve the quality of life for residents.

Housing Initiatives

Vergennes: Construction of a 9-unit multifamily building to provide affordable and moderate-income housing.
Statewide: Purchase of land and infrastructure to create low-income housing for early education professionals.
Springfield: Construction of 42 new affordable housing units with energy-efficient features.
Gilman: Renovation of two St. Johnsbury properties resulting in 7 affordable units.
Wilmington: Permanently relocate homes out of the floodway to areas of higher ground, purchase 26 new Zero-Energy Ready manufactured homes, and install the new homes within Mountain Home Park.

Childcare and Education

Bristol: Expansion of a preschool, reserving a percentage of slots for low-to-moderate-income families.
Statewide: Construction of a modest schoolhouse to expand programmatic infrastructure and access for low-income families.
Cabot: Expansion of a childcare facility to increase slots by 30 children and add 7 jobs.
Randolph: Repurposing a vacant building to create a new early care and education program serving 88 children.
Waitsfield: Expansion of a major childcare and early education center to accommodate 125 children.
Addison County: Construction of a state-of-the-art building at the existing Otter Creek Child Center site.
Starksboro: Renovation and improvement to the Starksboro Village Meetinghouse to add a second classroom and restroom for toddlers.
Statewide: Build a new facility to expand childcare center serving 45 pre-school aged youth and their families to add 14 slots all serving lot- to moderate-income families.

Arts and Culture

Middlebury: Growing a community theater into a regional performing arts center.
Hardwick: Renovation of an existing building to create new workspaces, storage spaces for museum collections, and exhibition spaces.
St. Johnsbury: Catamount Film & Arts Co. Acquisition and upgrades to establish a Creative Campus in St.
Greensboro: Cyrus Eaton House - Energy-efficient and ADA-accessibility upgrades and improvements, and construction of two 4,000 sqft multi-use venues.
Barre City: Completion of a new well-designed two-story community recovery center in Barre City.
Woodstock: Community For Woodstock Co.

Infrastructure Improvements

Bennington: Repurpose the historic Old Bennington High School building for housing, community recreation, and social services.
Bennington: Extension of municipal sewer along North Main Street to provide service to multiple properties.
Bennington: Installation of a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) to power sprinkler systems in the new hotel project and other commercial properties.
Bennington: Extension of water line into the Mobile Home Park.
Swanton Village: Extension of water and sewer infrastructure to support business and workforce development.
Killington: Creation of a municipal water supply system and transmission.
Dorset Village: Large-scale update to the Dorset Village Water System.
North Hero: Construction of a water tower to provide redundancy in the distribution system.
Manchester: Extend an 8-inch waterline Adds 3,300’ of waterline to the existing water system and includes the installation of three fire hydrants.

Business and Agriculture

Fairfax: Investment in the Vermont Food Venture Center (FVC) creamery milk intake and production capacity.
Cabot: Rehabilitation of a barn and new construction to create a retail destination featuring local cheeses and foods.
Lyndonville: Village Ventures - 61 N.

Community Spaces

Island Pond: Renovation of Island Pond building into a vibrant multi-use commercial/residential space in the town center.

Tourism and Recreation

Dog Mountain: Build a new facility at Dog Mountain.

The Allure of Vermont: Beyond the Spa

Vermont's appeal extends beyond the promise of a luxurious spa experience. The state is known for its natural beauty, charming towns, and a variety of attractions that draw visitors year-round.

Quaint Accommodations and Local Charm

The state offers a range of lodging options, from modern hotels to cozy, family-owned motels. The 1896 House Inn and Country Lodgings, for example, provides a glimpse into Vermont's past with its retro-style accommodations and warm, country furnishings. Such establishments offer a unique experience that contrasts with modern, cookie-cutter hotels.

Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities

Vermont's landscape is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, skiing, and exploring the state's many covered bridges and scenic vistas. The Green Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for a variety of activities, from leisurely walks to challenging climbs.

A Destination for All Seasons

Vermont's appeal varies with the seasons. In the fall, the state's foliage attracts visitors from around the world. In the winter, ski resorts offer world-class slopes for skiers and snowboarders. Summer brings opportunities for hiking, swimming, and exploring the state's many lakes and rivers.

Other Spa and Resort Options in Vermont

While the Southern Vermont College transformation is underway, Vermont already offers a variety of spa and resort options for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa (Manchester)

This luxury hotel offers a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and access to the Golf Club at Equinox.

The Palmer House Resort, an Ascend Collection Hotel (Manchester Center)

This golf hotel provides free breakfast, free WiFi, and comfortable accommodations.

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