Today, Supervisor Kathryn Barger joined top Los Angeles County Department health leaders and Los Angeles County’s chief engineer to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new state-of-the-art 50,000 square foot health center in North Hollywood.
Located just a few blocks away from Metro’s North Hollywood station at 5300 West Tujunga Boulevard, the North Hollywood Health Center is designed to enhance healthcare access and improve overall wellness in the region.
“This facility represents a commitment to addressing the diverse health needs of not just the local community, but the entire San Fernando Valley,” said Supervisor Kathryn Barger. “What makes this project so special is its focus on bringing a wide array of healthcare services together, all under one roof. As we break ground today, we are laying the foundation for a healthier future for North Hollywood and its surrounding communities.”
In 2021, the Department of Health Services conducted an in-depth analysis to identify areas in Los Angeles County where access to primary care was lacking. North Hollywood was recognized as a community in high need due to the limited number of healthcare facilities and a large population of Medi-Cal recipients.
Once completed, the North Hollywood Health Center will include examination rooms, phlebotomy stations, a wellness center, a laboratory, outdoor community gardens, and a demonstration kitchen.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health will operate a CORE Center onsite equipped with counselors that can provide individual counseling sessions to prevent alcohol and drug use, education about substance abuse disorders, and referrals to free or low-cost addiction treatment services.
The County’s Department of Mental Health will also offer therapy services onsite, including providing medication assisted treatment for individuals with co-occurring disorders. “This center will be a beach of hope and healing where people can find understanding and support in their own community,” commented Dr. Lisa Wong, Director of Los Angeles County’s Department of Mental Health, during the groundbreaking ceremony.
The project’s budget is currently estimated at $92,975,000, which includes design, construction, consultant services, and miscellaneous expenditures. Funding for the project has been made possible through American Rescue Plan Act funds. The center is expected to create numerous jobs during construction and–once operational–will further contribute to the local economy.
Construction is set to begin the week of October 15, 2024, with plans to open the facility by the end of 2026. The project is anticipated to serve thousands of residents annually, improving health outcomes and fostering a healthier community.
According to Mark Pestrella, Director of Los Angeles County Public Works, the North Hollywood Health Center will be built to obtain LEED Gold certification. This demonstrates the County’s commitment to sustainability and incorporating green building practices to minimize its environmental footprint.
“Because it’s in NoHo, this project wouldn’t be complete without an art piece,” Supervisor Barger commented during the groundbreaking. “The civic artwork will enhance the center’s welcoming atmosphere and reflect the creative spirit of North Hollywood. The North Hollywood Health Center will be a treasured community asset for decades to come.”
Click here to read a motion introduced by Supervisor Barger last year that authorized construction of the North Hollywood Health Center.