Chattanooga, Tennessee, August 27, 2025
News Summary
The Tennessee State Building Commission has approved a $260 million project to replace the Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute. This decision arises amid controversies surrounding the existing site, which is significant to Native American tribes, as the search for a new location continues. With the approval, stakeholders hope to better address mental health needs while respecting the area’s rich historical importance.
Chattanooga, Tennessee – Tennessee State Building Commission Approves New Mental Health Facility
The Tennessee State Building Commission has approved a $260 million project to replace the Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute, a facility that has been operational since 1961. The decision comes amid significant controversy surrounding the existing site, which is located on land of historical importance to Native American tribes.
No specific replacement site has been confirmed as the search for a suitable location continues. Wyoming State Rep. Yusuf Hakeem’s office has suggested two potential sites for the new facility: one near Erlanger’s campus on 3rd Street and another off Amnicola Highway. Previous considerations for the Eastdale area were abandoned due to local opposition.
The decision to replace the Moccasin Bend facility was prompted by an archeological review initiated after consultations revealed the site’s significant archaeological materials. Nearly three-fourths of the state property in Moccasin Bend is classified as archaeologically significant, featuring Woodland period artifacts that potentially include human remains and isolated burials.
State Sen. Bo Watson played a crucial role in facilitating discussions between the Department of General Services and Commissioner of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, Marie Williams. Initially, there was a plan to rebuild on the current site until the archaeological concerns and local sentiments urged the commission to reconsider. Local resident Frank Robbins referred to the removal of this plan as “the coup de grace,” highlighting the influence of Native American groups who have sought to preserve sacred sites.
Community Concerns and Mental Health Resources
In addition to the approval of the new facility, the Hamilton County Board of Education recently decided not to renew a contract with Centerstone Community Mental Health Centers. This organization has provided confidential school-based mental health counseling services for over a decade without costs to the school system. The loss of this contract has raised alarms about the potential impact on students’ access to essential mental health resources.
Despite the Board’s decision, advocates emphasized the importance of maintaining mental health resources for students, especially following recent community tragedies. Concerns about the alignment and philosophies of Centerstone’s services were expressed by some board members during discussions about the contract’s renewal.
The Hamilton County Board’s decision has been met with frustration and regret from several members who believe that cuts to mental health services could adversely affect students’ well-being and access to necessary support.
Historical Context
The Moccasin Bend area has been recognized as a national historic landmark since 1986. The approval of the new facility represents a significant step in addressing both modern mental health needs and the preservation of a location of great cultural and historical importance. The combination of archaeological significance of the existing site and the ongoing need for mental health services have created a complex landscape for decision-makers.
With the new facility projected to enhance mental health services in the region, stakeholders hope that the chosen site will respect the rich history of Moccasin Bend while adequately serving the mental health needs of the community.
FAQ Section
What is the Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute?
The Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute is a mental health facility located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, that has been operational since 1961.
Why is the replacement of the facility significant?
The replacement is significant due to the historical importance of the site, which contains significant archaeological materials, and ongoing concerns from Native American groups about the preservation of sacred lands.
Where will the new facility be located?
As of now, no specific location has been confirmed. However, two potential sites discussed are near Erlanger’s campus on 3rd Street and off Amnicola Highway.
What happened with the Hamilton County Board of Education’s contract with Centerstone?
The Hamilton County Board of Education voted not to renew its contract with Centerstone, which provided school-based mental health services, raising concerns about access to mental health resources for students.
Why is mental health service access important for students?
Mental health service access is crucial for students, especially following community tragedies, as it directly impacts their well-being and ability to learn effectively.
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Additional Resources
- Tennessee Lookout: Tennessee Building Commission Approves New Moccasin Bend Mental Health Facility
- Chattanoogan: School Shootings And Mental Health Services
- Times Free Press: Hamilton County School Board Rejects Mental Health Partnership
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mental Health
- Local 3 News: Two Sites Under Consideration for Moccasin Bend Relocation
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
