Montgomery County Mental Health Hub: Community Weighs In on Hara Arena Site
Trotwood residents and mental health professionals recently gathered to discuss the state’s plan to build a latest behavioral health hospital on the former Hara Arena site. The proposed facility, which straddles Trotwood and Harrison Township, aims to address a critical shortage of psychiatric beds in Ohio.
Addressing a Critical Need for Mental Healthcare
Ohio currently operates six behavioral health facilities, but consistently struggles with capacity. The new hospital is projected to add 208 beds to the state’s network, a significant step towards improving access to care. State documents indicate the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health requested $2.5 million from the Controlling Board in November to purchase the 91-acre property in Trotwood and 42 acres in Harrison Township.
Local Reactions: Support and Concerns
While acknowledging the importance of expanding mental health services, the city of Trotwood has expressed reservations about the Hara Arena location. City officials are seeking a site that offers better access to comprehensive resources and a more supportive environment for patients. Harrison Township, however, has voiced its support, highlighting the potential for economic growth and the provision of vital care.
Community Voices: Beyond Opposition
Dianne Smith-Foster, a Trotwood resident, emphasized that concerns center on location, not a rejection of mental healthcare itself. “If you’re hearing that Trotwood is opposed to this facility and that people are afraid about mental health, that’s absolutely not true,” she stated. She also pointed to the need for facilities that allow families to easily access loved ones receiving treatment.
Economic Impact and Development
The project is anticipated to create over 500 new jobs with an annual payroll of approximately $126 million. Harrison Township officials believe the hospital will serve as an “anchor” for further development in the area. The state is planning a community feedback session in early February to gather input on potential uses for the remaining property, including the possibility of a public park.
Timeline and Future Outlook
Crews are already on site preparing for the project. The planned 270,000-square-foot building is currently slated for completion by 2030. Mario Broussard, a clinical social worker, underscored the importance of such resources, stating, “Our communities are more vulnerable when we don’t have resources. And so we have individuals now who don’t have a place to go.”
FAQ
- What is the purpose of the new facility? To add 208 much-needed beds to Ohio’s mental health hospital network.
- Where will the hospital be located? On the site of the former Hara Arena, spanning Trotwood and Harrison Township.
- What is the estimated completion date? 2030.
- What are the economic benefits? The project is expected to create over 500 jobs and generate an annual payroll of around $126 million.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about local development projects by signing up for community newsletters and attending public meetings.
Want to learn more about mental health resources in Ohio? Visit the Mental Health America of Ohio website.
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