History

Construction of the Community Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center (CERC) was begun in 1968 with state funds and a large federal grant. Together with the connected Shriver Center, the entire complex cost about $2.3 million and could treat 1,000 patients each year. The CERC was opened in July of 1969.

Activities at CERC focused on psychological research (in tandem with Shriver Center and Withington), laboratory/office space and programs to transition Fernald residents from its institutional setting towards "cottage" or community living. It was last used by UMass Medical Center until the Fernald campus closed in 2014. The structure was demolished in 2019.

Historic Images