Mental health officials are hoping they receive stimulus money to build a new high security hospital in Fulton. The hospital would replace the current facility, which is spread out across about 40 buildings, mostly which are at least over 40 years old.

The project would cost around $350 million. Regional executive officer of the Division of Comprehensive Psychiatric Services in the central region says the current facilities need ongoing maintenance to keep the services at an acceptable standard for federal regulators and the hospital's accreditation.

"At this point, were hoping to have a new facility that would better provide services in a safer environment for both our patients and staff and in an environment where we have sufficient treatment space that actually can lead to more effective outcomes for our clients."

The new hospital would keep the entire hospital in one building. It would hold about 450 beds for patient use. © Copyright 2012, KBIA