The Benton Harbor Planning Commission has heard from Corewell Health about its plans for the new Center for Better Health and Wellness at 145 West Main Street. At a Tuesday meeting, Corewell’s Phil Cooper talked to planners about the facility, now under construction, to be located in a building donated by Whirlpool. This replaces the current Center for Better Health and Wellness.
“It would be relocating and expanding that clinic into this building,” Cooper said. “So, it aligns with what’s been approved in the area and we’re just looking for that approval to move that function into this new building that we’ve been donated.”
The center’s Dr. Willie Lawrence said this clinic will offer a wide range of medical services not offered at the current location across the street.
“If we want to transform this community, it’s not enough to be just a hospital care system. Health comes in many ways, and it starts young.”
The Planning Commission was to consider a special use permit for the center, but there wasn’t a quorum at the meeting. They had Corewell do its presentation anyway, with a vote on the permit to come at a later date. Corewell opened the current Center for Better Health and Wellness during the pandemic. After a positive response, the decision was made to expand. It’s hoped the new center will be ready to open in the fall.
