Executive subcommittee approves revision to Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute replacement project after archaeological study

The executive subcommittee of the State Building Commission voted to approve a revision to the project scope for the Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute new replacement facility after an archaeological study identified artifacts at the originally planned site, Commissioner Marie Williams told the panel.

The change stems from a study by New South Associates that found archaeological artifacts near the Winston Building on Moccasin Bend, Williams said. "Their final report showed a number of archaeological artifacts in the area, and they recommended we build the new replacement facility on another location in the Hamilton County area," she told members. The subcommittee approved the requested revision by voice vote after a motion and second.

The Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services said the revision means the new facility will be located off the originally planned Moccasin Bend site and that the move will require purchasing land. "We are actively looking for the right property with Department of General Services that is large enough to support Tennesseeans' needs now and into the future," Williams said. She told the subcommittee staff will return to the executive subcommittee to seek approval for any land purchase.

The motion to approve the scope revision was moved and seconded and carried on a voice vote; no opposing votes were recorded on the transcript. The action authorizes the scope change but does not approve any specific land purchase or construction contract.

The subcommittee recorded no further debate on the item. Williams' presentation and the subcommittee's approval took place during the meeting agenda item listed on page 3, according to her remarks. The project will return to the subcommittee for future approvals once the Department of General Services identifies a site that meets the project requirements.