Trotwood discusses state plan for behavioral health facility at former Hara Arena site

Mental health professionals and community members met in Trotwood to discuss the state's plan to build a behavioral health hospital on the former Hara Arena site; the state says the project could create more than 500 jobs and aims for completion by 2030.

The state plans to build a behavioral health hospital on the former Hara Arena site, which lies partly in Trotwood and Harrison Township. Mental health professionals and local residents gathered Friday evening in Trotwood to discuss the project and answer community questions. Panelists described local resource needs and how a facility might serve patients and families. Some residents expressed concerns about the hospital's location while also acknowledging potential benefits. Key points: - The planned facility would sit on the old Hara Arena site that straddles Trotwood and Harrison Township. - Mental health professionals attended a community meeting to provide information and respond to questions from residents. - Some community members said they are not opposed to the facility but have concerns about its location and access. - Panelists noted gaps in local behavioral health resources and described a need for closer services for families and patients. - The state has said the project could create more than 500 jobs and has a target completion around 2030. Summary: The meeting highlighted local interest in how the hospital might affect access to care, jobs, and surrounding development. Officials and panelists discussed resource needs and community questions but did not report detailed next procedural steps. Undetermined at this time.