Recovery Health Services Renovation – University Health

In 2022, University Health Behavioral Health Recovery Services in Kansas City began a major renovation to modernize its facility dedicated to treating patients with psychiatric conditions and substance use disorders. With a mission to provide safe, effective, and patient-centered care, the health system partnered with Henderson Engineers to deliver specialized healthcare engineering and design solutions for the 18,000 SF project.

The renovation spans three stories of an existing building and required the complete demolition of nearly all original infrastructure. The outdated systems were not adequate to support today’s behavioral health treatment needs, so Henderson’s scope focused on creating reliable, efficient, and code-compliant building systems tailored to the demands of a behavioral health environment.

Our team designed new mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems to improve building performance and support patient comfort and safety. Upgrades included a new electrical service and distribution system, domestic water, and a manual fire alarm system. Henderson also engineered innovative telecommunications services to support modern healthcare operations, along with new structured cabling, nurse call systems, access control, and integrated security systems. These improvements are critical in behavioral health settings, where staff must balance patient safety, operational efficiency, and long-term facility reliability.

In addition to MEP design, Henderson provided fire and life safety engineering, ensuring the facility complies with strict healthcare codes and standards. By addressing infrastructure needs from the ground up, the project team created a safer and more supportive environment for both patients and staff.

This renovation highlights Henderson’s expertise in designing hospitals, clinics, and behavioral health facilities that require thoughtful engineering solutions. By modernizing building systems and integrating safety-focused technology, we helped University Health Behavioral Health Recovery Services continue its mission of delivering comprehensive behavioral health and recovery services for the greater Kansas City region.

Location

Kansas City, Missouri

Project Size

18,000 sq ft