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New $305 million Austin State Hospital unveiled as Texas revamps psychiatric system

The facility has 240 single-person rooms, a basketball gym and outdoor courtyards. It’s part of a $2.5 billion overhaul of the state’s mental health hospital system.

Patient rooms include a bed, desk and private bathroom in the Austin State Hospital on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 in Austin. The hospital has 240 beds for adult inpatients.

DSHS Executive Commissioner Cecile Erwin Young cuts a ribbon during the Austin State Hospital grand opening on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 in Austin. The ribbon read, “Mental Health Awareness Month” and was colored green as the international symbol for mental health awareness.

State hospitals’ history

A map of Texas showing various psychiatric hospitals in Texas inside the Austin State Hospital on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 in Austin.

State hospitals’ role


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Criminal justice Health care State government Department of State Health Services Mental health