The 15,000-square-foot facility will have 24 beds and treat mostly 18- to 25-year-olds.

"This is a much-needed facility for the county. Drug addiction is a big problem here, and long-term treatment is needed so patients can get back to leading normal lives," said Commissioner Perry Jones.

The plot of land, owned by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, is located near the Springfield Hospital Center, a state mental-health facility, and a minimum-security prison.

The lease, which must be approved by the state Board of Public Works, is a result of negotiations between county officials and the state departments that own the property. The biggest obstacle to finalizing the plans was finding a suitable location.

The county has been planning this treatment facility for at least three years. "We have nailed down the issues and can go to the state board without any loose ends," said Frank Johnson, special assistant to commissioner Julia Walsh Gouge.

The county may advertise for design and engineering bids in August, and in two years the center could be completed and accepting patients.

Carroll County is a Demand Treatment! Partner.

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