Health center progresses

AMENIA — Phase one of Hudson River HealthCare’s new center, with its use of environmentally attuned design, recycled materials and energy-efficient systems, has been completed — and on time.

The new structure — one of the greenest community health centers in New York state — is already providing dental, medical and mental health care.

Situated on Amenia’s Main Street (Route 343), Hudson River HealthCare (HRH) promotes the connection between green living and good health, in all of its 16 community health centers in the Hudson Valley region.  

Phase two of the project — demolition of the original health center, which is adjacent to the new structure, and the construction of the second half of the new center — is almost complete.

The $3.7 million expansion of the Amenia Health Center will double its size to 8,300 square feet, and increase capacity from 7,500 to 15,000 to meet the needs of the fast-growing patient population in eastern Dutchess County.

There are rooftop solar panels, high efficiency heating and cooling systems, quiet floors made from recycled cork and a green version of vinyl tile. Future plans include a landscaped wellness garden with therapeutic plants, which will be watered by roof runoff.

Recycling focus

“Everything possible from the old building is being recycled — metal shelving, sheetrock, electrical wiring and roofing materials would be donated to Habitat for Humanity, which constructs homes for people in need of shelter,” said Anne Nolon, president and CEO of Hudson River HealthCare.

In addition, Amenia has recently renovated its Town Hall, which needed furniture, and HRH Care was able to donate chairs, tables and desks from the old Health Center to the newly renovated Town Hall.  

“We are so pleased to be able to help the town in this way,” Nolan said.

Green fundraising

Last year, the Foundation Board of Hudson River HealthCare hosted its first Cornucopia Dutchess fundraising event to support the renovation and expansion of the Amenia Health Center at the Red Devon, the Dutchess County restaurant in Bangall that is renowned for green construction and outstanding locavore cuisine.

This year, it hopes to build on that success, with a second elegant dinner and auction at the same venue on Friday, June 3. Tickets to the June 3  event can be reserved by calling 914-734-8736.

Hudson River HealthCare

Founded in 1975, Hudson River HealthCare is a nationally-recognized network of community health centers offering comprehensive high quality, affordable medical, dental and behavioral health services to everyone.  

For more information about the programs and services available at Hudson River HealthCare Centers or to locate an HRHCare Center, go to www.hrhcare.org or call 914-734-8736.  

Submitted by Kirstine-Priscille Jackson.