Mayo Clinic Health Systems-Austin has acquired the old A&W for what it terms, “flexibility for growth.” Eric Johnson/photodesk@austindailyherald.com

It’s official.

Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea and Austin bought the former A&W property, 1005 First Drive NW, last month for an undisclosed price. Mayo does not have specific plans for future use of the location, but the building will likely come down in October, along with a house also owned by Mayo at 1000 First Drive NW.

“We are always reviewing long-term strategic plans and by acquiring the A&W property we can control how the property is developed in the future to give us more flexibility for growth. In the short-term, these properties will become green space,” said Scot Ramsey, operations administrator at Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea and Austin, in a written statement to the Herald.

According to Mower County records, the A&W property was valued at $221,500.

Mayo also owns properties at 1001, 907 and 911 First Drive Northwest.

A&W, formerly owned by Gregg Johnson, closed in spring 2013.