The county acquired the former Polyclinic building at 1110 Harvard Ave for $41.5 million to create a 24/7 walk-in behavioral health facility. An early renovation estimate of $16 to 17 million in early discussions around the project was a preliminary “Rough Order of Magnitude” figure, according to a spokesperson.
That initial projection accounted only for hard construction expenses, omitting soft costs such as engineering, architectural design, permitting, and owner contingencies before operational programming with designated operator Connections Health Solutions had begun.
To keep the redevelopment on track for a targeted late-2027 opening, the County Facilities Management Division has requested a $35 million authorization, funded by rebalancing the voter-approved Crisis Care Centers Levy implementation budget.
Final construction figures and schematic designs will be released once a general contractor joins the team early next year, the spokesperson said.
Officials also confirmed that the property’s vacant southern lot will be addressed. After building renovations are fully designed, the county will consult neighbors and the City of Seattle on potential uses, including community-requested green space.
CHS reported here last month on the beginning of a key land use review process for the facility for interior and exterior upgrades that “apply the principles of trauma-informed design, and recognize the unique needs of individuals across the lifespan” at the medical building on the edge between First Hill and Capitol Hill.
The new construction outlook would push the total price tag on the project above $76 million for the acquisition and transformation of the three-story building.
A citizen-led Seattle Community Advisory Group formed to help shape planning for the project is also working to allocate an additional $3 million county mitigation fund to address street disorder and public safety gaps.
CHS reported on the advisory group’s early work around public safety improvements focused heavily on surrounding street conditions.
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