In an unexpected turn of events, Village Behavioral Health, a subsidiary of Acadia Healthcare, has decided to abruptly abandon their previously announced plans for constructing a behavioral health facility in Friendsville, focusing on treating adolescents with severe mental health issues. This change in direction comes after a comprehensive site evaluation, revealing significant infrastructure shortcomings that could jeopardize safety and emergency response efforts.
The organization was originally set to move its Louisville-based adolescent treatment center to a new location in Friendsville, but after conducting extensive assessments, Village Behavioral Health came to find that the proposed property would not allow to sufficiently provide access to domestic water or fire suppression resources. Assistant Director of Design and Construction, Adam Gravley, stated in a letter obtained by the City of Friendsville, "Due to these limitations, the organization has officially withdrawn its application." The same communiqué announced the intention to seek a new site in the region.
Concerns about the proposed development extended beyond the immediate logistical challenges. Area residents had voiced misgivings about growth and development, leading to renewed discussions around zoning precedents. In response to these concerns, Friendsville's City Commission took action to revise zoning ordinances to better manage future development, particularly along the Highway 321 corridor.
Following an intensive review process that began with Planning Commission workshops in November 2023 and culminated with the adoption of the revised zoning ordinance in March 2024, the city of Friendsville remains steadfast in its commitment to responsible growth, as echoed in the official statement. Mayor Steven Cardwell's office acknowledged the withdrawal of Village Behavioral Health's plans in a note published on City of Friendsville’s Facebook page, posted on Thursday. The post confirms the community's focus squarely on sustainable and safe development suited to the needs and concerns of its residents.
