Yankton, SD – On an unusually cool July morning in Yankton, South Dakota, dozens gathered, standing shoulder to shoulder for a ribbon-cutting that was years in the making. This wasn’t just the end of a construction project. It was the beginning of something deeply personal for the community. The new 60,000-square-foot Lewis & Clark Behavioral Health Services facility opened its doors, offering a fresh sense of hope for individuals and families in need of behavioral health support across the region.

And hope is exactly what this space was built to reflect.

 

A Design Centered on Dignity

Schemmer served as the architect and engineering designer on this project, but for our team, this was never just about the structure. It was about the people inside. Project Manager Randy Gunnink, who worked closely with the Lewis & Clark team from day one, described the difference between this space and what came before it as “night and day.”

From separate care wings for youth and adults to a welcoming fireplace and arched windows that flood the entry with light, the design invites visitors to feel a sense of calm the moment they walk in. “It’s not just a building,” Gunnink said. “It’s a place where people come to heal, and we wanted every element to reflect that.”

Keeping People Close to Home

In years past, many residents in crisis had no choice but to seek help hours away, often in Sioux Falls, removing them from their families, support systems, and familiar surroundings at the moment they needed connection the most.

“This facility will keep patients local,” said Gunnink. “They won’t lose their families. They won’t lose their connections. That matters.”

And the community agrees. From city leaders to first responders, the support for this project was described over and over again as “overwhelming.” The City of Yankton donated land. The National Guard offered easements. The USDA provided key funding. Everyone from local banks to volunteer board members stepped up.

A Statewide Shift in Mental Health Care

While the local impact is clear, this project is also part of something bigger. South Dakota leaders described the expansion of regional behavioral health crisis centers as one of “the biggest change in mental health care in a generation.” That kind of momentum is no accident. It’s the result of years of collaboration between dedicated public servants, nonprofit leaders, healthcare providers, and design professionals, all working toward one shared goal: improving access to care.

More Than Bricks and Mortar

As professionals in architecture and engineering, it’s easy to get lost in the technical details, the permits, the specs, the budget sheets. But we know it’s important to stay focused on what really matters and this project is a great reminder of why we do what we do. For Gunnink, this was personal.

“My wife’s a social worker. She works in this field every day,” he said. “Knowing I helped build a space that helps people like her and the people she serves, that means a lot.”

Lewis and Clark Board Vice President described this facility as “a reflection of light.” A place where people are seen, heard, and offered the care they deserve right here in the community they call home. Schemmer is honored to serve a role in making this dream a reality.

SCHEMMER – DESIGN WITH PURPOSE. BUILD WITH CONFIDENCE.

At Schemmer, we believe that great design goes beyond structures; it strengthens communities. As a full-service architecture, engineering, and construction field services consultant, we deliver innovative solutions that enhance the built environment and improve lives.

Since 1959, we have been shaping the future while honoring our legacy. With eight offices across five states in the Midwest, our expertise reaches coast-to-coast, bringing thoughtful, sustainable, and impactful solutions to every project.

Our Comprehensive Services:

• Architecture
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At Schemmer, we don’t just design—we create lasting impact. Let’s design a better future together.

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