Governor Bob Ferguson completed a week-long visit to Western State Hospital in Lakewood, Washington, on October 28, 2025. The visit was part of a commitment he made before taking office to better understand the state’s behavioral health system. During the week, Ferguson met with hospital leadership, Department of Social and Health Services officials, staff, patients, and labor representatives. He observed the daily operations and challenges at the 350-bed psychiatric facility.
Ferguson toured the current hospital and the construction site for a new forensic hospital, which is planned to open in August 2028. The new facility will also have about 350 beds and is intended to provide care for individuals involved in the court system. Ferguson stated that the hospital is an important part of Washington’s behavioral health network. He said he would use information from the visit to improve patient care and system efficiency.
The visit included a tour of the Child Study and Treatment Center, where Ferguson met with young patients and staff. He also visited the Gage Center, which provides forensic services, and the new Treatment and Recovery Center. The new center, expected to open in 2026, will have classrooms, a library, a gym, and a barber shop to help forensic patients return to the community…