Crews demolish blighted building to make room for Peer Support Center

Our Public Works crew began tearing down the blighted and empty former motel near the corner of Ingleside and Riverside drive on Wednesday, July 17. This clearance will make room for River Edge Behavioral Health's new Peer Support and Community Adult Center.

"We are excited to be able to play a role in the revitalization of an area that was no longer serving the community a purpose," says Mayor Lester Miller. "We're grateful for the important work River Edge does in our community, and we look forward to seeing this new Center being built."

The Center will be aimed to support people facing a mental health challenge or psychiatric disorder. It will allow individuals to gain insight from one another. Peer Group support and a Peer Support Specialist will help individuals transition out of negative circumstances and into positive ones.

River Edge welcomes all adults experiencing Behavioral Health (BH) issues, who struggle with significant challenges, past or present, to the center. This may include traumatic events, mental health concerns, and/or substance use. The center will also serve Individuals with Developmental Disabilities (IDD).

"The center will enable individuals to gain a deeper level of independence through teaching and reinforcing daily living skills, encouraging community integration, and offering volunteer and vocational programs," says Cass Hatcher, Chief Executive Officer for River Edge Behavioral Health. "We aim to achieve this by assisting individuals through offering ongoing education and teaching the skills necessary to attain self-determination.

The 35,000-square-foot center will include large group rooms, a common area, arts & crafts rooms, calming rooms, a teaching kitchen, and an inclusive gymnasium.

The Center will serve as a safe place for those seeking help through weekly support groups by providing a welcoming environment for anyone age 18 and over seeking a sense of belonging.