More than $6 million in upgrades are planned for the main building of Beacon Light Behavioral Health Systems in Bradford.
On Thursday, John Policastro, director of communications for Beacon Light, confirmed a possible $6.3 million project is in the works for the facility.
“Beacon Light has plans in the works for a multi-phase project on our East Main Street campus,” he said. “The plans call for construction of additional residential beds and renovations to the historical main administration building that will also include a new training center.”
The project is in its early stages, he added.
“The plans hinge entirely on Beacon Light being awarded an RACP (redevelopment assistance capital program) grant that is intended to fund capital construction projects,” Policastro said. The McKean County Industrial Development Authority is requesting the grant funds for Beacon Light. RACP grants do require matching funds.
“Total anticipated costs for the multiple phases will be $6.3 million dollars and take several years to complete,” Policastro said. “More information will become available pending grant approval and final board of directors approval.”
The agency was founded in the early 1900s as the Children’s Home of Bradford. According to the agency’s website, “Throughout its history, the agency has provided quality care to thousands of young people. As the needs of our society have changed, Beacon Light Behavioral Health Systems has evolved into a private, not-for-profit, social service agency providing quality, professional, education and behavioral health services to young people.”
Currently, Beacon Light has 102 beds for residential clients, including children and adults both. The agency operates 12 properties in the Bradford area, including a school in Custer City.
In addition to residential treatment, the agency offers emergency shelter placement, forensic mental health services, education programs, community-based programs, outpatient services and long-term residential services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
