ACLD to Build Health Services Center

With Long Island’s developmentally disabled population growing, Adults and Children with Learning and Developmental Disabilities, Inc. (ACLD)  recently announced its plans to build a state-of-the-art health care center in Bethpage.

The ACLD is a leading non-profit agency founded in 1957, servicing more than 3,000 children and adults with disabilities.

According to the Town of Oyster Bay, approval was given for the site plan on Apr. 21. The approval for the building will take about 30 to 60 days and ACLD is hoping to break ground sometime in during the spring of 2011.

This new 22,000 square foot facility is going to be named the Charles Evans Health Services Center. The center's namesake was the founder of the fashion house Evan-Picone, a film producer, commercial real estate developer and supporter of many charitable and community causes. The Charles Evans Foundation has pledged over $1 million to assist in this multi-million-dollar project.

The new health care facility is planned to be a two story, modular building adjacent to the ACLD’s headquarters, which is located at 807 South Oyster Bay Road in Bethpage.

“Even though there have been budget cuts, we are determined to continue with this project," said ACLD Director of Development and Community Relations Colleen Crispino.

Fusion Architecture, located in Plainview, has designed the new facility and Axis Construction of Hauppauge is acting as construction project manager. The entire project will cost an estimated $10 million.

“People with developmental disabilities are an underserved and growing population here on Long Island," said Aaron Liebowitz, Executive Director of ACLD. "They need high quality medical and related services now and will need more in the future. The Charles Evans Health Services Center furthers ACLD’s mission of supporting the pursuit of an enviable life. It will enable ACLD to expand services and improve the quality of life for thousands of Long Islanders with developmental disabilities.”

The center will combine a modern out-patient medical facility, along with ACLD’s Article 28 Clinic for general and specialized care. The center is designed specifically for people with developmental disabilities - allowing for smooth transitions within the facility. A large waiting area will help reduce the potential for congestion and help enhance privacy and security for the patients.

Two dental operatories are also planned, with digital equipment enabling better imaging and limited patient exposure to radiation. The second floor will house the ACLD’s Adult Service Center.

“The new center will allow expanded primary care services for those affiliated with ACLD, as well as others within the community," Liebowitz said. "This Center will have more examination and treatment rooms, which will diminish patient wait times and reduce the burden on overcrowded emergency rooms, while providing quality health care to our community.”

ACLD has launched a Capital Campaign Program in order to secure private donations to help fund this project. For more information on how to become a part of bringing this vital center to completion, contact Colleen Crispino, Director of Development and Community Relations, at 516-822-0028, ext. 138 or visit their website at www.acld.org.