Ellis Medicine closing nursing home, rehab center at McClellan Street campus

The Ellis Residential and Rehabilitation Center is closing in the coming months, Ellis Medicine announced on Tuesday.

The decision to close the facility at its McClellan Street campus followed an unsuccessful two-year process to find a sustainable solution to run the nursing home, including a national search for a buyer, Ellis said in a statement.

Ellis said it is working to provide a smooth transition for residents. It is also committed to retaining all its employees and working to transfer them to other positions in the organization. 

The closure plan will be overseen by the New York State Department of Health.

“Closing ERRC is a heart-wrenching decision, especially considering the excellent care our staff has provided over the years,” said Paul Milton, president & CEO of Ellis Medicine, in a statement. “However, the underutilization of the 18-acre McClellan campus and the resulting financial burden have made it clear that we must always be evaluating where we focus our resources to remain viable in a challenging healthcare environment.”

The annual financial burden of operating the McClellan campus is $5 million and 80% – around 295,000 square feet – remains unused.

A community meaning to discuss the closure will be held on June 26 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Robb Auditorium at the McClellan Street Health Center.