The Shadow
COVINGTON, Va. (VR) – A major investment in behavioral health is taking shape in Covington as a $3.9 million renovation moves forward to create a new mental health and substance use treatment center serving the Alleghany Highlands.
The project, led by Alleghany Highlands Community Services, is designed to centralize a wide range of programs in one location, a move officials say will improve access to care in a rural region.
“Having this center under construction to serve the needs of our citizens in this community is critically important,” said Alleghany County Administrator Ken McFadyen. “We have folks in this community who need these services as a result of the opioid epidemic in the United States.”
The renovated facility will include clinical service space, therapy offices, and a peer support center. Services will include case management, recovery court support, intensive outpatient treatment, psychiatry provided through telehealth, and medication-assisted treatment.
Josh Taylor, executive director of the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, said the project marks a substantial investment in the community.
“Anytime that nearly $4 million in grant funding comes into a community of about 20,000 people, it’s a big deal,” Taylor said. “Ingrid and her team are doing trailblazing work.”
By bringing services together under one roof, the center is expected to reduce transportation barriers that often limit access to treatment for individuals in recovery. The building will also offer space for partner agencies, helping to strengthen coordination and support across the region.
Construction is expected to be completed next year. Community leaders say the facility will be a critical resource, improving access to care and helping save lives throughout the Alleghany Highlands.
