In crisis County makes case for Crisis Care Center on Broadway amid biz owner pushback

King County officials are advancing plans for a mental health Crisis Care Center on Broadway, despite pushback from local business owners who fear it will worsen the area's challenges. At a recent community meeting, business owner Molly Moon Neitzel emphasized the necessity of such facilities but questioned their placement in a troubled neighborhood. The county is internally evaluating the site’s feasibility and has not reached a final decision, although a purchase agreement is already in place. If the site is approved, the center could open by 2027 as part of a broader $1. 25 billion initiative approved by voters for new behavioral health facilities.

The centers aim to provide urgent care for mental health and substance use crises, followed by wraparound services. Kelly Rider, director of the county’s Department of Community and Human Services, reiterated the county's commitment to ongoing community engagement. The decision will be presented to the King County Council this summer, with hopes of addressing public safety concerns. The county aims to balance the need for crisis intervention with the community's desire for safety and stability.