The idea and vision for a proposed MIRA Neuro-Behavioral Health Center for Children and Adolescents will be up for review in September, and, if approved, remodeling of the building where the center will be located would begin this fall, according to a July news release from Hastings’ office. Outpatient services could begin next winter, followed by some acute care hospital beds open next June. The center would be at full capacity by January 2021, the release said.

Hastings and officials from Palos Behavioral Health Professionals said the facility would fill a gap in the local community because children who need mental health assistance and acute care are frequently turned away due to a lack of space at area hospitals.

Local officials have submitted 44 community letters of support, the release said, and the proposal goes before the Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board Sept. 17.

Currently, Silver Oaks Behavioral Hospital in New Lenox is the primary source of mental health-specific care in the Will County area, but it caters to patients of all ages.

"Too many children are dealing with painful mental and behavioral health challenges that ruin their quality of life," Hastings said. "Today, we are providing new hope that tomorrow will be better."