Breaking ground for mental health
Posted on Aug 29, 2018 in Capitol Connection, Featured
Gov. Ige, legislators and state officials at the new psychiatric facility site.
Governor Ige, Department of Health (DOH) officials and area legislators broke ground last month for a long-awaited 144-bed psychiatric facility at Hawai‘i State Hospital for forensic patients sent there by the court system. In 2016, the Legislature supported the governor’s urgent request to build a modern facility that addressed the over-crowded patient conditions.
“We’re well aware of the challenges the State Hospital faces,” said the governor. “Together, we took action and are doing something about it.” The $140 million contract calls for a team led by Hensel Phelps to design and build the new facility. The building is expected to be ready for use in 2021.
An architectural rendering of the new building at the Hawai’i State Hospital.
State health officials said the new facility will incorporate clinical best practices and create a modern therapeutic environment — all within a secured area. “Mental health is as important as our physical well-being,” said Dr. Bruce Anderson. DOH director. “The new building represents our state’s commitment to improving mental health care in our community.”