County working on next steps in Capitol Hill Crisis Care Center plan

King County officials are working to address community concerns regarding the proposed mental health Crisis Care Center at Broadway and Union through a forthcoming public meeting. This facility, which is part of a $1. 25 billion network of mental health services, faces pushback over public safety fears in an area already struggling with crime. County officials assert that the former Polyclinic site meets the necessary requirements for the center, including adequate space and zoning for health care services. Business leader Molly Moon Neitzel voiced her concerns during a May meeting, suggesting a different location may be more appropriate.

The Capitol Hill Community Council is collaborating with the county to gather community feedback via a survey before the public meeting. A decision on the facility's viability is expected this summer, with an opening projected for 2027 if the plan proceeds without interruptions. The community council will also address other local issues, such as public transportation and community engagement initiatives, in its upcoming meetings. These discussions underline the ongoing debate about mental health resources and community safety in Seattle.