Workers broke ground Thursday on the Cornell Scott-Hill Health Center’s new Recovery and Wellness Center, which will help patients with both substance abuse disorders and mental illness.
The $24.5 million, three-story, 31,000-square-foot building is being constructed at 149 Minor St. in New Haven.
Once finished, it will be used to provide short-term therapeutic living space for patients in recovery.
Plans are for it to feature individual and group counseling rooms, therapy space, a medical suite, a 12-bed dorm for women and a 40-bed dorm for men. It will have an industrial kitchen and a cafeteria.
The new building is expected to open for patients by late 2023. The state of Connecticut is investing $10 million toward the project’s cost.
It is being built alongside CS-HHC’s current South Central Rehabilitation Center. Svigals + Partners architectural firm designed the building, while Newfield Construction is the builder.
CS-HHC Executive Officer Michael R. Taylor called the groundbreaking ceremony, which attracted officials such as Gov. Ned Lamont, the culmination of a 10-year effort.
“When we free someone from the grip of addiction, when we effectively treat other behavioral health issues and also address their medical challenges — all in a patient-centered and integrated manner — we not only make individuals healthier, we strengthen our community,” Taylor said.
Dr. Ece Tek, chief medical officer of mental health and addiction services, spoke about the need for the new facility.
“We are determined to end the stigma that persists about behavioral health. It prevents the full measure of progress from being achieved,” Tek said. “Our shared goal is to achieve recovery and true wellness.”
Contact Michelle Tuccitto Sullo at msullo@newhavenbiz.com.
