Commercial building being built on grounds of former Northampton State Hospital

NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) - State and local officials helped kick off a major new development project Thursday on the grounds of the former state hospital in Northampton.

A groundbreaking ceremony marked the start of construction of the first commercial building on the North campus of Village Hill. The mixed-use building will be located at the corner of Route 66 and Village Hill Road.

It is expected to be an important addition to the mix of residential housing and businesses at Village Hill.

“Today, we're officially underway for a 16,000 square foot facility, state-of-the-art business facility, including offices and a couple of retail spaces. Also hoping for a restaurant,” said Jonathan Wright of Wright Builders.

Wright told 22News that the building is expected to be completed by late summer 2013.