OBSERVER File Photo The former Lakeshore Hospital has been closed since 2020.

A new future for the former Lake Shore Hospital is already in motion.

In a news release, the New York Medical Center announced it is repurposing the former hospital in Irving that will provide comprehensive behavioral health and substance abuse, inpatient and outpatient services, to residents throughout Western New York. The property, which was recently acquired in April from Brooks-TLC Hospital System, Inc., proved to be a collaborative and supportive partner throughout the process – and will remain a valuable partner moving forward.

“We are excited about giving this site a second chapter, and grateful for the opportunity to positively impact the people in our community,” said Raymond Manning, chief executive officer of New York Medical Center. “The location will allow us to extend our reach and provide vital care and support to a range of people on their journey to recovery.” The Center plans to assemble a dedicated team of medical professionals and counselors to ensure the program’s success.

The property is undergoing extensive renovations to transform it into a modern behavioral care center. It will be staffed and equipped to serve up to 180 beds for patients experiencing behavioral health challenges and substance disorders. This expansion increases the original facility’s capacity and addresses the critical need for inpatient and outpatient treatment in the community and beyond.

“We are pleased with the outcome of this transaction as it brings back vital behavioral health as well as substance use services to the community and gives the building a renewed purpose,” said Ken Morris, president and CEO of Brooks-TLC Hospital, Inc. “We remain fully committed to collaborating in the delivery of high-quality health care services to this region.”

Throughout the construction and once completed, the Center will also be an important source of employment in a rural part of Chautauqua County. The Center is expected to create hundreds of jobs and generate income for nearby businesses.

The renovation will begin immediately, as the Center plans to open and accept patients as quickly as possible. Throughout the renovation, staffing, and grand opening process, the Center will collaborate with the Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), the Office of Mental Health (OMH), and local stakeholders to ensure a successful launch. “We are optimistic about working closely with the Department of Health and New York state to achieve everyone’s goals,” Manning added.

State officials offered their praise for the project.

“As Chautauqua County is predominantly a rural area, the residents need this healthcare facility to ensure their health, safety, and well-being,” said Assemblyman Andrew Molitor, R-Westfield. “Typically, rural areas have limited services and resources to address healthcare needs.”

George M. Borello, New York Senator of the 57th district, said, “This project represents a significant opportunity to revitalize a crucial community asset while addressing critical healthcare needs. The new medical center will restore the mental health services that the area lost when Lake Shore closed.”

After completing the inpatient renovations, Phase 2 plans include reintroducing an essential Emergency Department back into the community. Manning said the executive team recognizes the need, as emergency services are stretched thin locally due to the distances between regional care facilities related to 9.39/9.41 needs. The Center will work closely with the Department of Health (DOH) and the state on this initiative.

In the coming weeks, as the renovations near completion, the Center will invite the community to a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate.