Two years ago, the city paid $3 million for properties in the 300 block of South David and South Ash streets with the idea of razing the buildings for parking.
The developer's proposal at the Parkway Plaza so far includes a 40,000-square-foot facility would have a 25,000-square-foot ballroom plus offices and other rooms.
The building receiving the new heating system houses a clinic for the homeless, residences for low-income families and individuals, and services for residents.