House lawmakers on Monday gave final approval to a multi-million dollar plan to begin replacing the beleaguered Whiting Forensic Hospital in Middletown with a more modern facility. The bi-partisan effort, which passed by a vote of 147-0, follows years of alleged abuses and inadequate supervision at the maximum-security psychiatric hospital. The agency was also tasked with developing the plans for a new facility at Whiting. In March, the State Bond Commission approved $500,000 toward the development of such a plan, with the total cost expected to eventually reach $3 million. In its notes on the agenda item, the bond commission noted the existing hospital facility is more than 50 years old and is already in need of repairs to its heating and cooling system, roof, sprinkler system and other essential building functions. An interim report on plans for the new building is due to be completed by the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services and sent to lawmakers by Jan. 1, 2023.
https://www.stamfordadvocate.com/news/article/CT-lawmakers-approve-3M-plan-to-replace-Whiting-17142682.php