Capital Fund Successfully Closes $8.5 Million NMTC Allocation for Wheeler Clinic Expansion in Bristol, CT
Capital Fund is proud to announce the successful closing of an $8.5 million New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) allocation for Wheeler Clinic, Inc. (Wheeler). Established in 1968 and designated as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in 2015, Wheeler has been at the forefront of providing a comprehensive continuum of care across Connecticut. The health center offers primary care, behavioral health, special education, community justice, child welfare, early childhood prevention, wellness, and recovery services to patients of all ages.
Expanding Healthcare Access in Bristol, CT
Wheeler’s latest expansion project involves the construction of a state-of-the-art 48,439-square-foot facility in Bristol, CT. This new location, strategically situated across the street from Wheeler's existing Bristol Health and Wellness Center and 0.4 miles from the Bristol Behavioral Health Center, will consolidate these two smaller sites and relocate Wheeler's administrative offices from Plainville, CT.
Key Features of the New Facility:
- Primary Care and Behavioral Health Services:
- 12 primary care exam rooms
- 18 rooms for behavioral health/psychiatric intakes and individual sessions
- Four treatment rooms for individual, family, and group sessions
- A chiropractic exam room
- A teaching kitchen for nutritional education
- Community and Administrative Space:
- 34,939 sq. ft. dedicated to community programs, administrative offices, and training/conference rooms
Addressing Community Needs
Located in a medically underserved area and a primary care professional shortage area, the new facility will significantly enhance healthcare access for the community. With over 70% of patients considered low-income with pre-existing conditions, Wheeler's expansion will provide critical services, including:
- Integrated behavioral health for children/adolescents and adults
- Pediatric and adult primary care
- Care management
- Child/adolescent and adult psychiatric care
- Medication-assisted treatment for substance use disorders
The new site addresses a significant unmet need in Bristol, where nearly 14,418 low-income residents currently lack access to health center services. The facility's state-of-the-art amenities and expanded services will ensure comprehensive care for the most vulnerable populations.
Economic and Community Impact
The development of Wheeler’s new facility also plays a vital role in the economic revitalization of downtown Bristol. The site, which has been vacant for more than 20 years, will now become a cornerstone of community development. As a state-funded behavioral health trainer for state employees and non-profit providers, Wheeler anticipates an influx of 50-100 trainees visiting the site weekly, contributing to the local economy and supporting nearby developments, including mixed-use and apartment projects.
Capital Fund's Commitment
This transformative project was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Capital Fund, US Bank/Twain, and Thomaston Bank, resulting in a total project budget of $25.7 million. Capital Fund's $8.5 million NMTC allocation has been instrumental in bringing Wheeler’s vision to life, with the facility set for completion in July 2024.
Schedule a free consultation with Brandon Boyle, Senior Director of Loan Programs, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to learn how we can support your health center’s planned expansion.