AAC
FEATURE
Pulaski County cuts ribbon on new CSU Story and Photos by Holland doran AAC Communications Coordinator
C
entral Arkansas now has a secure facility that provides professional mental crisis care to those who may be facing jail time. July 6, Pulaski County cut the ribbon on its new Crisis Stabilization Unit, a 16-bed facility created to divert those who are experiencing mental health crises away from the county jail. Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson spoke to a large crowd of state and local officials, healthcare professionals, and residents during a ribbon cutting ceremony in front of the new CSU located at 3001 W. Roosevelt Rd., Little Rock. Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde and CSU Program Director Lisa Evans thanked everyone who had a hand in making the unit a reality. “This is the culmination of what can be achieved when a group of people work together for a common cause,” Hyde said. Pulaski County worked with the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences to develop the facility and treatment criteria that will allow more citizens access to critical mental health services. The Pulaski County CSU is the second in the state to open — the first was in Sebastian County.
Top: Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde (right) and State Rep. Clarke Tucker cut a ceremonial ribbon in front of the new crisis stabilization unit. Above left: Judge Hyde speaks during the ceremony. Above right: CSU Program Director Lisa Evans speaks about the 16-bed facility.
Left: The Pulaski County Crisis Stabilization Unit is located at 3001 W. Roosevelt Road, Little Rock. Above: Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson speaks to event attendees. 28
COUNTY LINES, SUMMER 2018
