County and state leaders broke ground Thursday on a $28.1 million renovation that will convert a wing of the Edgemoor Distinct Part Skilled Nursing Facility in Santee into an Acute Psychiatric Unit, adding 12 new psychiatric beds to East County's mental health care system.

The 13,500-square-foot wing is scheduled for completion in May 2027, officials said. The new unit will provide 24/7 short-term intensive psychiatric care for individuals experiencing a serious behavioral health crisis, with stays typically lasting a few days to one or two weeks. A 5,780-square-foot courtyard is also planned as part of the renovation.

"Having access to safe, specialized care can make a critical difference for families and individuals when behavioral symptoms become overwhelming and immediate support is needed," said Nadia Privara Brahms, director of County Behavioral Health Services. "That's why we're so excited to begin work on this new acute psychiatric unit in the East County."

The renovation is largely funded by the State Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Program, a state initiative intended to support counties in constructing new mental health and substance use treatment facilities. The program was designed to address long-standing gaps in psychiatric care capacity across California.

Edgemoor already operates as a licensed skilled nursing facility for adults with complex behavioral and physical health needs. The new acute psychiatric unit represents a significant expansion of behavioral health infrastructure in East County.