Placing it in the heart of the city makes sense State, county, and city leaders working to shape Broadway Crisis Care Center plan

State Rep. Shaun Scott and Seattle City Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck will host a town hall on Capitol Hill to rally support for a mental health Crisis Care Center at Broadway and Union. The proposal, which involves acquiring the former Polyclinic building for $50 million, has encountered substantial pushback from the local business community. Scott emphasized the importance of creating resources for those in need, while Rinck highlighted the successful implementation of a similar model in Kirkland. Councilmember Joy Hollingsworth has urged county officials to enhance communication regarding the project and increase transparency in the planning process.

She has also advocated for consideration of a potential youth crisis care clinic, addressing the urgent need for such services. County officials are in feedback-gathering mode and have yet to confirm locations for additional clinics in the proposed network. The town hall aims to alleviate concerns and present accurate information to residents. This initiative represents a critical step in addressing mental health needs in a densely populated urban area.