The House Appropriations - Human Resources Division convened on January 31, 2025, to discuss critical updates regarding the design and funding of a new state hospital in North Dakota. The meeting began with an acknowledgment of the urgency to finalize budget numbers, as the committee anticipates pressure for concrete figures in the upcoming sessions.

The primary focus of the meeting was the ongoing design process for the new state hospital, for which $12.5 million was appropriated in the previous legislative session. Mike Van Clai from TIGER Group, serving as the owner's representative, outlined the project's progress and emphasized the collaborative nature of the initiative, involving various stakeholders and partners across the state.

Van Clai introduced key members of the project team, including representatives from Mortenson Construction and JLG Architects, who are responsible for the construction management and architectural design, respectively. He highlighted the importance of adhering to proper procurement processes, ensuring transparency and accountability in the selection of the project team.

Mark Hanze, a principal architect with JLG, provided a detailed overview of the design phases completed over the past 18 months. He explained the methodology behind the design process, which began with extensive consultations with stakeholders to identify needs and preferences. This phase was followed by schematic design, where various evidence-based solutions were explored, ultimately leading to the development of detailed construction documents.

The architects emphasized the guiding principles of the new facility, which include a focus on recovery, safety, flexibility, and client-centered design. These principles aim to create a therapeutic environment that supports the long-term rehabilitation of patients while ensuring their safety and comfort.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to keep the project on track for construction to begin in the summer of 2025. The team expressed confidence that the additional $3 million in emergency funding would facilitate timely progress, allowing the project to meet its objectives and serve the needs of North Dakota's mental health community effectively. The committee plans to continue monitoring the project's development closely, ensuring that it aligns with the state's goals for mental health services.