State officials in Montana have chosen Laurel as the site for a new 32-bed mental health facility. This decision was announced by the Montana Department of Health and Human Services. They believe that Laurel’s location and healthcare resources make it an ideal spot for this facility.
DPHHS Director Charlie Brereton highlighted that this new facility will play a crucial role in improving mental health care for the region. It aims to enhance access to care, making it easier for patients and families to reach the facility. This is especially important in a state where mental health services can be sparse.
The project, which costs $26.5 million, was approved by lawmakers in 2025. Currently, Montana only has one state mental health hospital located in Warm Springs. With the new facility, officials hope to provide better care for those in eastern Montana.
Before settling on Laurel, state leaders considered several other locations, including Billings, which faced opposition from local city leaders. Miles City and Hardin also showed interest but did not secure the project.
While the exact location within Laurel hasn’t been disclosed yet, Mayor Dave Waggoner mentioned that a piece of land on Old Highway 10 is a potential site. Additionally, officials are also considering land near the Laurel Airport as another option.
In recent years, the urgency for mental health services has grown, with many states facing similar challenges. According to a 2021 report from the National Alliance on Mental Illness, nearly one in five adults in the U.S. experiences mental illness each year. This increases the demand for facilities like the one being planned for Laurel.
As the construction moves forward, community reactions will be important. Many local residents see this as a positive step toward addressing mental health needs in the region. The new facility could transform the landscape of mental healthcare in eastern Montana.
For more insights on mental health initiatives, visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness for detailed resources and information.
