AUSTIN, Texas —
Travis County's proposed mental health diversion program is progressing.
The KVUE Defenders are tracking the county's efforts to address mental health issues.
Commissioners got an update on how the project is coming along on Tuesday afternoon.
Phase 1 of the proposed new Mental Health Diversion Center and Central Booking Facility is almost complete. Members of the facility working group told commissioners they could start Phase 2 in the coming weeks.
The goal is to divert people with mental illness accused of minor offenses from going to jail and, instead, get the psychiatric help they need.
Experts have said that about 40% of the Travis County Jail population has mental health challenges. Initial mental health assessments for inmates are conducted in Central Booking, which county leaders say is too small.
In November, the working group estimated the cost of Phase 1 to be around $1.5 million, with a completion date of five-and-a-half years after requests for qualifications (RFQ) go out. An RFQ asks potential suppliers or vendors to detail their background and experience providing a specific good or service.
Earlier this year, commissioners approved the Crisis Care Diversion Pilot Program, aimed at using existing programs and facilities to offer treatment now.
The working group for the pilot program told commissioners there is a significant need for licensed facilities to treat the highest acuity patients, or the ones with the most severe mental health conditions and those who are at risk of harming themselves or others.
These facilities would offer short-term treatment, less than 14 days, and they need to be big enough to accommodate law enforcement, medics and others.
The working group covered why re-entry support is critical and must include helping patients with housing. Members also laid out how community engagement helps build trust. A listening session is planned for next month.
Finally, they outlined program governance and how involvement from decision-makers is necessary.
There was also discussion of the possibility of demolishing the current Travis County Central Booking in Downtown Austin. No action was taken on Tuesday.