A new state facility is in the works to support individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, in a region of Arlington where outdated and underused state-run structures currently exist. On Monday, October 16, the Arlington Planning Commission unanimously approved a comprehensive development plan for the forthcoming West Tennessee Regional Office of the State of Tennessee Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, a $45 million endeavor awaiting consideration by the suburb’s Board of Mayor and Alderman.
This modern, cutting-edge project entails the construction of a 39,000-square-foot office and warehouse facility on a 14.6-acre plot situated along Tennessee 385, east of the Milton Wilson and Oak Crest Drive junction. This facility is designed to replace the current operations located on the same site.
Commissioner Susan Payne expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “I think there’s a lot of need for this, so I’m pleased to see it. I think it’s a much more contemporary approach that will empower people to acquire life skills.”
The new structure will incorporate therapist offices, training facilities, and conference rooms for evaluating and selecting the most suitable equipment to aid patients with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Additionally, it will house a production workshop for crafting specialized equipment tailored to each client’s specific needs. A smaller secondary building will function as a seating and positioning clinic, and a maintenance building will also be part of the project.
Jeff Eakes, the senior architect and project planner from A2H, emphasized the opportunity for this development to enhance Arlington’s image and serve as a valuable asset for the town.
The 444-acre campus, formerly known as the Arlington Development Center, is comprised of nine significant buildings and structures, some of which are underutilized. The Baker Building, initially built in 1968 as a residential healthcare facility, now functions as an office for the agency.
Mayor Mike Wissman, who also serves on the Planning Commission, noted the long-standing collaboration between the town and the state regarding this project. He mentioned plans to acquire a significant portion of the land, approximately 350 acres, most of which consists of floodplains and potential parkland. Some sections may be designated for a new Arlington Town Hall and a future school.
Jeremy Credeur, the Town Planner, stated that the state intends to vacate the existing buildings and likely demolish them. A portion of the land may become available for purchase by the town in the future.
Construction on the new facility, estimated at around $70 million, is anticipated to commence next spring, with an expected construction duration of approximately 20 months. In the vicinity, construction is also underway for the $70 million Tennessee State Veterans Home on a 28.3-acre parcel that was previously part of the same campus, scheduled for completion by the first quarter of 2025.