Governor Bentley Establishes Timeline for Closing W.D. Partlow Developmental Center

MONTGOMERY— Governor Robert Bentley today announced that the permanent closing of W.D. Partlow Developmental Center in Tuscaloosa will take place on or before November 30, 2011.  The original deadline of September 30, 2011 to close the facility was lifted so Governor Bentley could visit Partlow residents and community and group facilities where residents would be moved. Governor Bentley informed Department of Mental Health Commissioner Zelia Baugh today of his November 30 decision deadline for closing Partlow.  

 “As a physician, I want the best possible care for residents with intellectual disabilities,” said Governor Robert Bentley. “I have visited group homes and day treatment facilities and firmly believe that these facilities provide the best care for Alabamians living with intellectual disabilities.  Closing Partlow by November 30 will give the staff and residents at Partlow an established timeframe to make a smooth transition.”

Partlow residents have already begun the process of moving into community based care. Thirty-three of the one hundred fifty-six residents of Partlow are now in permanent community based homes. As Partlow is preparing to close, families of Partlow residents are actively participating in the discharge planning of their loved ones and many are excited about having them closer to home. Additionally, some Partlow residents have also been involved in the decision making process and asking when they can move into community based care.

Alabama Department of Mental Health Commissioner Zelia Baugh commented “More importantly, the Partlow closure reaffirms my commitment and that of Governor Bentley to make available a home in the community for all the individuals we serve.”