Bellforge Arts Center to Transform Former Psychiatric Hospital into Cultural Hub
Medfield, MA – The historic Medfield State Hospital, once a psychiatric facility, is set to undergo a $30 million transformation as the Bellforge Arts Center prepares to revitalize the site into a regional arts and education hub. The Center plans to host a series of summer festivals, including the free Bellforge Pride in the Field-Fest this weekend and an annual Americana Fest later this month, featuring local musicians and talent.
Starting construction this summer, the Bellforge Arts Center will renovate key buildings, including the Lee Chapel and Infirmary, creating a 300-seat theater. This venue will accommodate a broad range of performances, lectures, and community events. "We aim to surprise and challenge the expectations of a suburban art center," said Paul Armstrong, the programming director.
Medfield acquired the property in 2014 after years of discussions, and a master plan for its redevelopment was finalized in 2018. The nearby remaining buildings will also be repurposed into 334 rental units, with 25% designated as affordable housing. Executives from Trinity Financial emphasized the project as a "rescue mission" for the historic structures. Completion of the arts center is expected in approximately 16 months, offering a unique cultural opportunity for the community.
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