State Senator Bo Watson said he is among local officials disappointed that the state has reversed course on moving the Moccasin Bend hospital to Birmingham Highway in Lookout Valley.

He said, “I am disappointed by the announcement to change the previously selected site for the Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute on Birmingham Highway. I truly believed this location was an ideal site for the facility and would have served our region well.

"However, I remain committed to doing my part in selecting a new site that best meets the needs of our state and the mental health community.

"I will continue working with my colleagues at the state level to identify an appropriate location and move this important project forward.”