Groundbreaking for Kedren Children’s Village: A New Era in Pediatric Behavioral Health in South Los Angeles
McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. and architectural firm HOK have initiated the groundbreaking process for the Kedren Children’s Village, a vital new facility for the Kedren Community Health Center Inc., located in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles. This significant venture represents a commitment of 5 million and is poised to become one of the few pediatric-focused behavioral hospitals in the United States, as well as the first comprehensive behavioral health facility in South Los Angeles.
Spanning approximately 103,000 square feet, the Kedren Children’s Village will encompass three main structures designed to provide a wide range of services. These include an inpatient psychiatric facility, outpatient services such as primary and urgent care, a pharmacy, and a transitional housing development. A notable feature of this project is the 24-unit transitional housing that aims to accommodate families of patients seeking care, as well as offering temporary lodging for homeless families and individuals engaged in Kedren’s mental health programs and outreach initiatives.
Furthermore, the campus will incorporate a parking structure to alleviate the prevalent parking issues within the residential area. To enhance the therapeutic experience for young patients, the design includes a physical therapy gym and an outdoor garden space, allowing for recreational activities outside the clinical environment.
The design philosophy for Kedren Children’s Village draws heavily from evidence-based best practices in pediatric behavioral health. The emphasis on safety, flexibility, and therapeutic environments is intended to create a nurturing space that reflects the historical and cultural context of the local community. Notably, the facility’s exterior façade and interior design are inspired by a quilt motif, symbolizing the diversity and warmth of the Watts community, representing its residents, families, and the interconnectedness of the services provided.
McCarthy’s involvement encompasses a comprehensive range of design-build services, including self-performing concrete, utility installation, and drywall. The company’s innovative EQUIP service offers an integrated approach to health care construction that streamlines equipment planning and minimizes delays, thereby effectively managing costs throughout the project’s duration.
The construction of the Kedren Children’s Village presents unique logistical challenges, particularly due to its location within a dense residential neighborhood. The project team must navigate building constraints within a limited site footprint while also managing the proximity to active railroad tracks. Special attention will be given to minimizing noise and traffic disruptions for local residents during the construction process.
The Kedren Children’s Village is projected to reach completion in the summer of 2027, marking a transformative development in the landscape of pediatric behavioral health services in South Los Angeles. By addressing the community’s unique needs, this facility aims to provide critical support for the mental health challenges faced by children in the area.
