Los Angeles County Breaks Ground on New Mental Health Facility

Los Angeles County has initiated a significant project to convert six long-vacant buildings at the Metropolitan State Hospital in Norwalk into a comprehensive mental health facility, known as the Los Angeles County Care Community. The project, which has a budget exceeding $100 million, is primarily funded by $65 million from Proposition 1, a voter-approved measure aimed at enhancing mental health services across California. The facility is designed to provide a range of services, including secure rehabilitation centers, interim housing, and long-term supportive housing for individuals experiencing mental health crises.

KABC - Los Angeles NewsNorwalk’s “Ghost” Hospital to Be Transformed into a Major Mental Health Village

The Care Community will feature two subacute psychiatric facilities with a total of 32 locked beds for young adults aged 18 to 25, a 70-bed interim housing building with wraparound services, and two permanent supportive housing buildings containing 60 apartments, totaling 162 beds. A shared community building will also be included, offering dining areas, case management offices, and wellness spaces. The interim housing is projected to open by late 2027, with the locked subacute units expected to follow in early 2028.

Norwalk’s “Ghost” Hospital to Be Transformed into a Major Mental Health Village

Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn emphasized the importance of the project, stating, “We are locking arms with the state to convert buildings that are doing no one any good sitting empty.” California State Senator Bob Archuleta, who represents the Norwalk area, described the initiative as a long-term investment in treatment and stability. County officials assert that the facility will operate under strict legal protections, including access to counsel and regular reviews for residents placed in locked units.

Norwalk’s “Ghost” Hospital to Be Transformed into a Major Mental Health Village

Despite the project's support, there are concerns from civil liberties and disability rights groups regarding the implications of expanding locked treatment facilities. Critics argue that any increase in secure treatment options must be accompanied by robust oversight to prevent potential overreach. They express apprehension about the intersection of the facility with California’s CARE Court framework, which aims to facilitate treatment for individuals with serious mental health issues. In response, county leaders have assured that legal safeguards and independent oversight will be integral to the facility's operations.

Norwalk’s “Ghost” Hospital to Be Transformed into a Major Mental Health Village

While the project has garnered support from local leaders and advocates, there are differing opinions on the necessity and implications of the locked treatment beds. Some community advocates have called for clear oversight and integration with neighborhood-based support systems to ensure the facility does not operate in isolation.

Norwalk’s “Ghost” Hospital to Be Transformed into a Major Mental Health Village

As construction progresses, Los Angeles County officials plan to conduct community outreach to keep residents informed about the project. Public meetings will be held to discuss construction timelines and gather input from the community, ensuring transparency as the facility moves toward its anticipated opening dates.

Norwalk’s “Ghost” Hospital to Be Transformed into a Major Mental Health Village