Hitching Post Workforce Apartments
- Date Submitted: May 1, 2025
- Category: Impact Story
Building Homes for Those Who Heal
In Jackson, access to housing shouldn’t be what stands in the way of recruiting and retaining skilled healthcare professionals. Yet the lack of affordable options continues to make it difficult for St. John’s Health to bring in—and retain—the people our community relies on. That’s why the redevelopment of the historic Hitching Post site represents more than a construction project—it’s a practical step toward long-term solutions.
Backed by strong community support, including the successful 2022 SPET vote, the Jackson Town Council unanimously approved St. John’s Health’s plan to develop 72 workforce housing units on the site. These homes will allow nurses, physicians, and essential staff to live closer to where they work—improving continuity of care, response times, and the sense of connection that comes when providers are part of the community they serve.
“Workforce housing isn’t just about putting a roof over someone’s head—it’s about creating the conditions for stability, quality care, and commitment,” said Anna Olson, President of St. John’s Health Foundation.
Construction is slated to begin in Fall 2025, with move-in targeted for Winter 2027. As part of the development, 18 existing structures—some more than 50 years old—will be carefully dismantled and relocated through a partnership with New West Building Company and Shacks on Racks. This reduces waste and demolition costs while honoring the site’s history and maximizing the impact of every donor dollar.
The Hitching Post Workforce Housing Project is a clear example of how strategic investment benefits the entire community. When healthcare workers can build lives here, it strengthens the care network we all depend on.
Watch a message from our leaders on How the Hitching Post Is Changing Lives.
