Commission approves Phase 2 expansion and design funds for Western Mental Health Institute

The State Building Commission approved a revision in funding and early design for Phase 2 of the Western Mental Health Institute, presented by the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.

Deputy Commissioner Heather Gunderson told the commission the project will add about 62,000 square feet to bring remote campus functions under one roof — including a full production kitchen, a gymnasium, IT spaces, maintenance and supply areas, administrative offices, training rooms and medical support spaces. Gunderson said value‑engineering with the designer and construction manager produced a functional design within the total project budget and recommended the commission approve the revision to move the project into the early design phase.

Michael Labelle of Allen and Hochul provided site context and programming details: the Phase 2 plan adds support services, a shared dock for kitchen and EOC warehouse functions, a fenced grounds maintenance area and a second floor with 25 inpatient units. Labelle presented program MAC figures at $49,610,000 and an internal design estimate of $44,529,876, and said the bid target is expected around $45,100,000. He said design completion is targeted around September with a groundbreaking to follow and construction expected to start in December and conclude on a two‑year timeline with a target completion in 2028.

A motion to approve the funding revision and early design phase was moved and seconded; commissioners approved by voice vote. The transcript records the presentation and timetable; it does not include a roll‑call tally.

Ending: The commission approved the Phase 2 revision and moved on to higher‑education master plans.