The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) in the US is set to build a new 330-bed mental health hospital, dubbed Donahue Behavioral Health, on the Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City (OSU-OKC) campus.

Entailing an investment of $147m, this new behavioural health facility will span over 200,000ft².

It will provide mental health services to both adults and children, including referrals to outpatient services and acute care.

The hospital will increase ODMHSAS's operational capacity by 100 beds and feature an urgent recovery centre (URC) to improve immediate accessibility to mental health services during crises.

It is expected to create around 250 jobs and have a five-year economic impact of approximately $447.5m in job creation, taxes, emergency room expenses, and homelessness.

The location of the facility was chosen for its ease of access, community support, and potential for workforce development partnerships.

This project is being funded by various sources, including the Oklahoma Legislature's allocation of $87m in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, support from Oklahoma County Commissioners, the City of Oklahoma City, and philanthropic organisations.

Slated to open in 2026, Donahue Behavioral Health will replace Griffin Memorial Hospital in Norman offering the Griffin psychiatric residency programme.

ODMHSAS Commissioner Carrie Slatton-Hodges said: “This hospital is an investment, dedicated to the people of Oklahoma.

“With the support from Governor Kevin Stitt, the Oklahoma State Legislature and OSU, ODMHSAS will deliver quality, efficient and effective behavioural health treatment services.

“Our staff is dedicated to serving the people of Oklahoma for another 100 years.”