Earlier this week, leaders from Zepf Center, Thomas Porter Architects, and Spieker General Contractors hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the year-long, $2.5 million capital improvement project occurring at Zepf Center’s Ashland Ave. location. Renovations began mid-January and will continue throughout 2024.
The project was made possible by funds from the Mental Health & Recovery Services Board of Lucas County (MHRSBLC) as well as the Ohio Office of Budget and Management controlling board. Facility upgrades include a mobile crisis staffing room, 23-hour observation unit, crisis intake interview rooms, an urgent psychiatric care unit, and an adult crisis stabilization unit. A new youth crisis stabilization unit will also be created—the first and only in the Toledo area.
In addition to representatives from Thomas Porter Architects and Spieker General Contractors, leaders from MHRSBLC and Zepf Center staff were in attendance to learn more about the project’s progress and how the completed spaces would enhance patient care.
“The need for youth and adult mental health services continues to rise,” said Zepf Center Board of Trustees President Christopher Pawson. “By taking the time to renovate our buildings and make room for additional services, we hope to continue being a valued resource throughout our communities.”
As well as providing new benefits for staff and clients, these building updates come during a pivotal time as Zepf Center celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2024. From humble beginnings serving residents of Lucas County’s South catchment area, the mental health agency Elizabeth Zepf founded in 1974 has evolved and grown immensely over the decades.
“Our locations, clients, leaders, and services have undoubtedly changed over the past 50 years,” said Zepf Center CEO Deb Flores. “This project is just one example of Zepf Center rising to meet the needs of our community and ensure our facilities continue to be a safe and comfortable place for clients to seek hope and recovery.”
Though these renovations will take place in one of Zepf Center’s busiest locations, staff and clients have been reassured that the same high-quality care will be delivered and construction work will only minorly impact most spaces.
Stay tuned for more updates as this project progresses!
