A significant milestone was reached as community leaders, healthcare professionals, and state officials gathered to break ground on a new chapter for Terrell State Hospital. The event marks the beginning of construction on a stateof- the-art 275-bed replacement campus, a project that represents years of dedicated work and collaboration.
State Representative Keith Bell, who was instrumental in advocating for this expansion, expressed pride and gratitude as he addressed the crowd. “This day has been a long time coming,” Bell said. “It is the result of years of hard work, collaboration, and a shared commitment to improving the lives of those in our community.”
The journey to this groundbreaking moment began in 2019 when Representative Bell requested funding to add a 20-bed unit at Terrell State Hospital dedicated to serving veterans. “When we announced that expansion, I said dedicating this new unit to our veterans was the least we could do for those who have given so much,” Bell noted. “Today, I am proud to say that this was just the beginning of a renewed commitment to the future of Terrell State Hospital.”
With no major renovations since the 1970s, the hospital has struggled to meet the region’s growing needs. Recognizing this, Bell worked closely with local officials, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, and other stakeholders to advocate for investment in the facility. Thanks to their efforts, the 88th Texas Legislature approved $573 million in funding for the new campus.
The new facility will include specialized units—175 non-maximum security beds, 50 maximum security beds, and 50 adolescent beds—ensuring it can meet the community’s diverse needs. The new campus will also continue to serve underserved populations, including veterans, who comprise nearly six percent of the patient population. “This project is not just about bricks and mortar,” Bell emphasized. “It is about renewing our commitment to mental health care in Texas and providing the right kind of care.”
The groundbreaking ceremony also highlighted the crucial partnership with The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, which will ensure the new facility serves as a center of excellence in mental health care. “Together, we are creating a facility that provides treatment and serves as a significant economic asset for the City of Terrell and a hub for workforce training,” Bell said.
State Representative Keith Bell represents Kaufman County and North East Henderson County. He serves on the House Committees on Environmental Regulation, Land & Resource Management, Local & Consent Calendars, and the Select Committee on Educational Opportunity & Enrichment. He is also Chair for the Sunset Advisory Commission.
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