Franklin County Health Department to Close in August for Renovations

story by MJ Kneiser

District 2 Public Health has announced a temporary closure of the Franklin County Health Department building for an extensive renovation project.

“The renovation aims to enhance our ability to serve the community and provide an even better experience for our valued citizens. The closure of the current building will begin on August 14,” said District 2 Public Health spokeswoman Natasha Young Tuesday.

At the Franklin County Commission work session in June, County Manager Derrick Turner told the Board that after an inspection it was determined the building was in need of repair.

According to Turner, the main problem with the health department building on Highway 145 in Carnesville is the deterioration of the plumbing. He also noted that the building is one of many county buildings in need of major renovation.

At their July meeting earlier this month, Turner asked the Board to approve the only bidder for the project, PeachState General Contractors and it passed unanimously.

The total cost of the renovation according to Turner is estimated to be $248,000.  That will be paid for with SPLOST funds, he said.

To minimize the disruption of services, the health department is scheduled to reopen at the Franklin County Board of Education, Historical Society Wing at 280 Busha Road in Carnesville on August 21 until the renovation is completed.

The renovation is expected to last until mid-October. Regular updates will be provided to keep citizens informed about the progress of the renovation and any changes in service locations.

During this period, essential health services will be relocated, according to Young.

Dental services will move to Hart County Health Department at 64 Reynolds St. Hartwell, GA 30643. Call 706-376-5117 to schedule an appointment.

WIC will offer remote services beginning August 1. Participants will be served in person, as needed, at Banks County Health Department at 667 Thompson St, Homer, GA, or the Hart County Health Department.

Environmental Health Services will move to the Franklin County Board of Education building at 280 Busha Road, Carnesville.

Continuity of Services:  Women’s Health, Family Planning, Prenatal Case Management, Child Health, Immunizations, General Clinic, STD, and TB services will continue to be accessible during the renovation period. Appointments are required during the renovation, please call 706-384-5575.

Community Partnerships: We are collaborating closely with local healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies to ensure a seamless transition during the renovation period. These partnerships will help facilitate access to health services and minimize any inconvenience to the community.

“We would like to express our gratitude to the community for their understanding and patience during this renovation period. We firmly believe that these improvements will enable us to serve the community even better and uphold our commitment to safeguarding public health. We strongly encourage you to schedule appointments prior to the August 14 -18 closure to avoid a delay in your care,” said Young.

For the latest updates and information on service locations during the renovation, please visit our official website at phdistrict2.org, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, or contact the Franklin County Health Department at 706-384-5575.