UNC Health Nash Officially Breaks Ground for New Hospital Tower
Nash County elected officials and UNC Health Nash President and CEO Dr. L. Lee Isley holding ceremonial groundbreaking shovels.
UNC Health Nash officially broke ground on its new seven-story inpatient tower during a May 14, 2025 ceremony, marking a major milestone in the hospital’s efforts to modernize care, improve operational efficiency, and better meet the evolving needs of the region.
The on-campus ceremony featured remarks from UNC Nash President and CEO Dr. L. Lee Isley, UNC Nash Board of Commissioners Chair Bill Lehnes, UNC Nash Foundation Board Chair Mike Gaynor, and longtime staff members Terry Coppedge (47 years of service) and Mildred Richardson (35 years of service). The event concluded with a ceremonial shoveling of dirt to signify the official beginning of construction.
“This new hospital tower isn’t just about a new building—it’s about transformation,” said Dr. Isley. “It’s a symbol of our commitment to grow with our community, to meet new challenges with purpose, to work collaboratively with our community, and to adapt to what’s ahead in healthcare.”
Lehnes reflected on the vision behind the project and the responsibility it represents.
“This new hospital tower is a critical step forward. It reflects our shared belief that rural communities deserve the same level of care available anywhere. It’s also a reminder that meaningful progress is no accident. It’s the result of vision, collaboration, and a deep commitment to community,” said Lehnes.
The project is part of a five-year strategic plan shaped by patient feedback, as well as community forums and needs assessments. According to Dr. Isley, plans for the tower were developed after the completion of a Master Facilities Plan five years ago, which identified the current hospital tower as a top priority for modernization to meet present-day care delivery standards. Renovation of the current tower was not an option due to the original layout of the existing facility.
Expected to open in late 2027, the tower will feature 150 spacious, private patient rooms with contemporary layouts, enhanced privacy, advanced technology, and upgraded amenities for families and visitors. While it will not increase the hospital’s total number of licensed beds, existing beds will be relocated into the new facility—offering patients a more comfortable, efficient, and supportive care environment.
The structure will connect to the south wing of the existing Nash General Hospital tower. Portions of the current facility will be repurposed to support evolving care delivery and operational needs.
“None of this would be possible without the support of so many people. Our Board of Commissioners has led the vision for this project for many years and provided the guidance and governance to ensure we are responsible stewards of our community’s resources,” Dr. Isley said. “Our medical staff, our employees, our patients, our community partners, and our project managers have engaged and collaborated with us on this major undertaking.”
To support the construction phase, traffic flow adjustments and parking changes have been implemented across campus. All patient and visitor parking has shifted to the lower level of the hospital’s parking deck, which includes handicap-accessible spaces and a covered walkway leading to a temporary hospital entrance. These changes will remain in place throughout the duration of the project.
To follow construction progress, access parking updates, and view renderings, visit UNCHealthNash.org/Expansion.
