Millions of Americans struggle with substance use disorder, and since the pandemic, the number of people seeking treatment has increased. That’s why Whitney Young Health in Albany is kicking off a project to expand its outpatient addictions treatment center.

There was a groundbreaking ceremony Thursday afternoon.

The estimated $4 million renovation project is an effort to help more who are struggling with addiction, not only in Albany, but throughout the Capital Region. The addition is to the existing building on Dewitt Street.

The facility is expected to expand and enhance patient services, according to CEO Dave Shippee.

“This program allows us to acknowledge people who are new into addiction treatment but also to help those who are continuing that journey and trying to get to a point where they are fully self-sufficient and are able to stay engaged in employment and keep their families intact,” said Shippee. “That’s really what we’re trying to foster, and the opportunity with this new facility and the ability to serve people in a much broader range.”

Construction is expected to be complete by the end of the year.