Central ND News

Gov. Kelly Armstrong joined state agency officials and local leaders in Jamestown to break ground on the new North Dakota State Hospital. The event signals a major step forward for the state’s efforts to improve behavioral health services.

The planned 300,000-square-foot facility will offer 140 beds in a modern environment designed for trauma-informed care. It replaces the current hospital, which has served North Dakotans since 1885. The new building is expected to feature specialized therapeutic spaces and advanced security measures to support both patient and staff safety, as well as an expanded capacity to meet future needs.

“This project represents our commitment to delivering high-quality, compassionate behavioral health care across North Dakota,” Armstrong said. “It’s a reflection of our focus on modernizing public services and collaboration, from state legislators to care teams. With a new State Hospital, we’re investing not only in infrastructure but in people – those receiving care and those providing it.”

The ceremony took place at the site west of the existing hospital along 12th Ave. SE in Jamestown. Attendees included state legislators, leadership from North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS), community leaders, and other stakeholders.

Remarks were given by several officials including HHS Interim Commissioner Pat Traynor, State Hospital Superintendent Aaron Olson, State Hospital Medical Director Dr. Eduardo Yabut, and HHS Behavioral Health Executive Director Pamela Sagness. They emphasized the hospital’s importance in improving dignity, safety, and recovery outcomes for patients.

“This facility stands as a promise that hope, healing and help are always within reach,” Traynor said. “Today’s groundbreaking is an important step toward brighter tomorrows for individuals and families in our state.”

The $300 million project was included in Armstrong’s 2025-2027 budget recommendation and received approval from state lawmakers. Construction is set to begin this month with completion targeted by the end of 2027. The design was developed by JLG Architects and Architecture+ with Tegra Group collaborating; Mortenson Construction will manage construction.

The new hospital will provide psychiatric inpatient care, forensic services such as evaluation and restoration, psychiatric rehabilitation, and a Sex Offender Treatment and Evaluation Program. Approximately 300 people work at the current State Hospital.

Additional information about the project can be found on the Health and Human Services website: https://www.hhs.nd.gov/news/armstrong-helps-break-ground-new-state-art-north-dakota-state-hospital-jamestown