California’s Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) plans to allocate $20 million to the Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness. This funding, sourced from the state’s Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Program (BHCIP) and backed by Proposition 1, aims to expand mental health resources in the region.
The financial support will facilitate the construction of two 16-bed Community Residential Treatment (CRT) facilities in Santa Maria. Located near the North Branch Jail, these facilities will focus on assisting individuals with serious mental illnesses, particularly those involved with the justice system. The initiative aims to enhance treatment options that prioritize recovery and diversion from incarceration.
This funding announcement is a significant step toward improving the behavioral health continuum in northern Santa Barbara County. The final acceptance of this funding will be discussed by the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors in an upcoming public meeting.
Toni Navarro, director of the Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness, emphasized the importance of this investment. “This potential investment represents a significant opportunity to expand community-based treatment options for people living with serious mental illness,” Navarro stated. She noted that social rehabilitation facilities are crucial for helping individuals transition from higher levels of care into stable community living, thereby reducing the need for hospitalization or incarceration.
If approved, the two facilities will add a total of 32 residential treatment beds in northern Santa Barbara County, supporting broader efforts to enhance treatment accessibility. The Department of Behavioral Wellness will work closely with the Santa Barbara County General Services during the design, development, and construction phases of the project. Construction is projected to be completed by fall 2029.
Kirk Langerquist, director of General Services, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. “We are excited to partner with Behavioral Wellness to design and construct a new mental health facility that will serve the community,” Langerquist remarked. He highlighted plans to implement a progressive design-build process—marking a first for the county—aiming to accelerate the project timeline.
This award is part of a broader initiative by the state to invest in behavioral health infrastructure across California. Previous funding from the BHCIP has supported various local projects, including the acquisition of the Haley Street Behavioral Wellness Center in Santa Barbara.
Assemblymember Gregg Hart praised the initiative, noting that the approval of Proposition 1 in 2024 represented a commitment from voters to enhance community-based mental health facilities. “I applaud Governor Newsom’s decision to award $20 million to help people experiencing mental illness in northern Santa Barbara County. Once constructed, this facility will change lives, bring hope, and improve the health and safety of our community,” Hart asserted.
As the project moves forward, community members and stakeholders remain hopeful that the new facilities will provide essential support and resources for those in need of mental health services. For more information about the Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness, visit their official website or contact the 24/7 Access Line at 888-868-1649.
