Harvard Street Neighborhood Health Center’s new affiliation with the Boston Medical Center is being hailed as a partnership that will allow the facility to refer patients for specialty services and expand “the menu of world-class services it offers to Boston neighborhoods.”

Harvard Street, which first opened in 1969, is already a member of Boston HealthNet Plan, BMC’s integrated health care delivery system of community health centers that grants patients access to many of the finest doctors and specialized care in the region.

“Aligning with BMC is a natural collaboration that will benefit our neighbors who need it most, leading to improved health outcomes and a stronger community of which we’re incredibly proud to be a part,” said Charles A. Murphy, Harvard Street’s president and CEO.

Added Kate Walsh, president and CEO of BMC: “We’re thrilled to add the Harvard Street Neighborhood Health Center as an affiliate of the Boston Accountable Care Organization. Harvard Street is a trusted neighborhood provider that makes a real difference in patients’ lives.

Murphy noted that Harvard Street has also teamed up with The Community Builders Inc., to plan a new health center facility and more than 50 affordable housing units on two city-owned lots near its current location on Blue Hill Avenue near Franklin Park.

“We’re fortunate to play an integral role in a vibrant, thriving community, and adding to our footprint in collaboration with our neighbors and elected officials is the next phase in that commitment,” Murphy said