Anna Maria College campus hits market after closure

A Rare Opportunity in Central Massachusetts

The 261-acre campus of the former Anna Maria College in Paxton, Massachusetts, has officially hit the market just weeks after the institution permanently closed its doors due to financial challenges exacerbated by the pandemic. With no set asking price, the property is assessed at $41-42 million, and brokers anticipate strong interest from a wide range of potential buyers.

"Properties of this size and significance rarely come to market in Central Massachusetts," said William Kelleher, Managing Partner at Kelleher & Sadowsky Associates, the Worcester-based firm handling the sale. "We anticipate strong interest from a diverse group of regional and national investors, educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and developers."

What the Campus Offers

The campus includes 16 buildings totaling approximately 344,000 square feet of space. Among the amenities are nine residence halls, two wellness centers, a dining facility, and seven parking lots. The property is divided into four parcels, which together house athletic facilities, a library, and a chapel, among other structures.

Although many of the buildings were constructed in the 1950s and 1960s, they are described as "generally well-maintained" and suitable for repurposing without major renovations. This makes the campus an attractive option for various uses, from education to residential development.

Assessed Value and Zoning

The combined assessed value of the four parcels for 2026 is approximately $42.03 million, according to Town of Paxton property records. The property is zoned as General Residence B, which permits residential and senior living developments. This zoning flexibility is a key selling point, as it opens the door to numerous possibilities.

Potential Uses: From Housing to Renewable Energy

Kelleher & Sadowsky Associates has already received inquiries from renewable energy firms, and age-restricted housing is another avenue being explored. The listing also highlights potential uses such as healthcare facilities, rehabilitation centers, mixed-income housing, and Chapter 40B projects, which allow for affordable housing development. Educational institutions remain a viable option as well, given the existing infrastructure.

"We will be exploring every opportunity available," said Kelleher. "We're considering age-restricted housing and have already received interest from renewable energy firms. Education is another avenue worth investigating. We plan to reach out to a wide array of potential buyers."

A Call for Offers in September

The property is currently listed without a set asking price. Instead, a call for offers will be announced in September, according to Kelleher. This approach allows potential buyers to propose their own visions for the campus, which could lead to a more creative and fitting redevelopment plan.

The timeline also gives interested parties time to conduct due diligence and assess the feasibility of their intended use. Given the scale and uniqueness of the property, this could result in a competitive bidding process.

A New Chapter for a Historic Campus

Anna Maria College, a small private Catholic institution, closed its doors in May after years of declining enrollment and financial struggles that were worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. The sale of its campus marks the end of an era, but also the beginning of a new chapter for the property.

With its prime location, extensive facilities, and flexible zoning, the campus presents a rare opportunity for developers and organizations looking to make a significant impact in Central Massachusetts. As the September call for offers approaches, all eyes will be on Paxton to see what the future holds for this historic site.