Recovery center proposed for San Marcos

Interfaith unveils plans for a 150-bed recovery and wellness center; nonprofit awaiting funding allocation from state under Proposition 1

A 150-bed recovery and wellness center is being proposed in San Marcos by Interfaith Community Services. The project, though, is contingent on the nonprofit being awarded a massive grant from the state. Steve Puterski photo

SAN MARCOS — A new proposed recovery and wellness center took a step forward on Tuesday.

The City Council approved a resolution for an agreement and memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Interfaith Community Services and the Mission San Marcos Unified Methodist Church for a 150-bed facility on five acres between San Marcos Middle School and Palomar College on Mission Avenue.

The project is estimated to cost between $40 million to $60 million with 90% of funding coming through the State of California Bond Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Program (BHCIP) with Interfaith responsible for the remaining 10%, according to the agreement. The funds will be allocated from Proposition 1, which was approved by voters in March 2024.

Interfaith CEO Greg Angela, though, said the project is contingent on the nonprofit receiving those state funds; however, he said the state is committed to fully funding several projects. He said the process is competitive as Interfaith submitted its application in December with the BHCIP, which will announce the awards in May or June at the latest.

The proposal calls for two buildings totaling 49,000 square feet with one three-story, 42,000 square-foot building to house the residential treatment program and a one-story building for the withdrawal program.