CHATTANOOGA (WDEF) – Governor Lee is bringing some news with him for his tourism speech in Chattanooga on Thursday.
The State of Tennessee has dropped their plans to build a new psychiatric hospital on Moccasin Bend.
This is a victory for the drive to turn the Bend into an archaeological park.
The Governor says the decision was based on an archeological review of the state owned property.
They haven’t done such a study since the Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute was built in 1961.
The Governor says they will look for another site for the future hospital.
Tennessee General Services Commissioner Christi Branscom says “Using minimally invasive techniques, the team uncovered compelling evidence of the site’s rich archeological heritage. These findings clearly demonstrate that Moccasin Bend is a cultural treasure that must be protected and preserved for future generations.”
Here are some of the findings from the survey:
1. 73% of the state-owned parcel at MBMHI is comprised of a multi-component archaeological site containing buried layers of historic and pre-contact materials, occupation surfaces, and features (pits, hearth materials, etc.).
2. The presence of Woodland period features (pits and occupation surfaces) indicates that there are likely more intact features within the site, some of which may still contain human remains or isolated burials. No human remains or burials were found during the survey.
3. Areas within the parcel exhibit excellent preservation and integrity.
State Senator Bo Watson supports the decision.
“The Hamilton County Legislative Delegation has consistently supported the protection of the historic artifacts and land at Moccasin Bend. “I repeatedly said that we would not make any decision until this archeological survey was complete. The report clearly identifies the importance of the protection of the Moccasin Bend site, I support and encourage the state to find another location for a new facility.”
Mental Health Commissioner Marie Williams says this decision will not change the state’s commitment to the hospital.
“We know that publicly funded psychiatric beds are an essential emergency mental health safety net for our neighbors who have the greatest needs and little or no ability to pay for treatment. Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute will continue to provide these essential services to its 52-county coverage area while we work diligently to determine next steps. Until that determination is made, we will continue to operate the beds at MBMHI to provide high-quality care to the patients we serve.”
Statement from Mayor Weston Wamp
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