Lane County and PeaceHealth are working to establish a new behavioral health campus in Springfield, but the plan is contingent on the city agreeing to annex the required land. The proposed project includes a stabilization center aimed at supporting adults and youth facing mental health crises. So far, the county has secured approximately $44 million in funding and has chosen Connections Health Solutions to operate the center.
Read More
In addition, PeaceHealth plans to build a separate 96-bed inpatient facility, the Timber Springs Behavioral Health Hospital, adjacent to the stabilization center. Eve Gray, Lane County’s Health and Human Services Director, emphasized the urgent need for these services in the community, especially for young individuals and those currently incarcerated. She estimates that the new facilities could generate around 275 jobs and reduce emergency department wait times at RiverBend by about 45 minutes.
Gray noted that while the stabilization center will not have an emergency room license, it will function similarly for those in behavioral health crises, ensuring easy transfers to the hospital for higher levels of care. To facilitate the construction, Lane County acquired a property near RiverBend Hospital but now faces a hurdle since it is outside Springfield's city limits, requiring annexation for municipal services.
At a recent City Council meeting, the council initially leaned towards denying the annexation request, citing an interpretation of the city's comprehensive plan that would not permit such facilities. However, during a follow-up meeting, some councilors expressed a willingness to consider annexation, acknowledging the community's need for these services.
Councilor Andrew Buck remarked on the necessity of balancing interpretations of the plan but recognized unanimous agreement on the need for mental health services. Springfield Mayor Sean VanGordon suggested they could revisit the proposal if further information is required.
Despite the potential for annexation, there are other challenges ahead. Neighboring property owners, including Richardson Sports, are currently suing, claiming that a law passed in 2025 to streamline zoning for these types of facilities is unconstitutional. If the lawsuit succeeds, it could prevent both projects from proceeding.
Additionally, Gray mentioned that the current state definition of a stabilization center does not permit involuntary admissions for adults, a key aspect the county intends for the facility. However, she expressed confidence that legislative adjustments could be made in the next session.
The goal is to begin construction on the facilities in the spring and complete them by 2029. Gray expressed optimism about overcoming the challenges presented and the positive impact these developments would have on the community.