Catholic institution St. Mary's Parish finalizes $8.5 million purchase of the previous AACS Bestgate Campus
In a significant move to expand its presence in Annapolis, St. Mary's Parish has acquired the Annapolis Area Christian School (AACS) campus located at 716 Bestgate Road for $8.5 million. The deal, facilitated by Justin Mullen, President of Hyatt Commercial, and an unnamed representative from Rosso Commercial Real Estate Services, marks a significant step in the parish's long-term vision to broaden its mission and reach.
For over three decades, the campus served as a key location for AACS's educational programs. However, as of now, AACS will continue to operate on the site through the end of the 2025–2026 academic year as it prepares to consolidate its operations at its Severn campus.
The 9.37-acre property includes a 40,000-square-foot facility with a gymnasium, art and music rooms, 18 classrooms, administrative spaces, and a large athletic field, providing a versatile space for potential future developments. This acquisition adds to St. Mary's Parish's existing properties, including its historic downtown campus on Duke of Gloucester Street and the nearby St. John Neumann property on Bestgate Road.
The acquisition is seen as part of a long-term vision to expand the parish's presence in a central Annapolis location, which will support the Parish's evolving needs over the years. The Parish has not yet released detailed plans for the future use of the newly acquired campus, but the addition is considered a significant one, promising to support the parish's mission for years to come.
Justin Mullen, President of Hyatt Commercial, represented the buyer in the transaction, while the seller was represented by Rosso Commercial Real Estate Services. The acquisition is a significant addition to a central Annapolis location that will support the Parish's evolving needs for years to come.
In light of the acquisition, St. Mary's Parish might consider investing in the real-estate potential of the newly purchased campus, potentially opening avenues for commercial developments in Annapolis. The Parish's broader mission, including education and community outreach, could also benefit from the expanded facilities, offering new investing opportunities in the field of education.
