North Carolina Construction News staff writer
A major milestone has been reached on the UNC Health Nash campus with the topping out of its new inpatient hospital tower, marking completion of the building’s structural framework and advancing a multi-year modernization project.
The seven-story tower, expected to open in late 2027, will feature 150 private patient rooms, each with dedicated bathrooms and showers. Hospital leaders say the design is intended to improve patient comfort, privacy and recovery conditions while also supporting more efficient workflows for care teams. A topping-out ceremony was held recently to mark the placement of the final structural beam. Community members, staff and project partners signed the beam before it was lifted into place, marking a traditional milestone in major construction projects.
Each signature, hospital officials said, represents a shared commitment to the future of care at UNC Health Nash.
“We recently celebrated the topping out of our new inpatient hospital tower, marking the completion of the building’s structural framework and another exciting step forward in the future of care at UNC Health Nash,” the health system said in a statement.
Novus Architects highlighted the achievement as the structure reached its highest point in Nash County, sharing views from the top of the building and noting progress toward completion.
The project is being delivered by construction contractor Christman Rodgers, with design led by architect Novus Architects, Inc. Engineering and project partners include Dewberry and DCI.
Although the project will not increase UNC Health Nash’s total number of licensed beds, existing beds will be relocated into the new tower. Officials say the updated facility will allow for more modern care environments and improved clinical layouts across inpatient services.
UNC Health Nash said the tower was developed through a five-year strategic planning process that included patient feedback, community forums and a formal needs assessment. The inpatient tower was identified as a top priority following completion of a master facilities plan that determined the existing structure required modernization. Hospital leaders said renovation of the original tower was not feasible due to its layout.
The new building will connect to the south wing of the existing Nash General Hospital. Portions of the current facility are expected to be repurposed to support evolving clinical and operational needs once the new tower opens.
Once finished, the tower will include expanded clinical spaces, redesigned inpatient units and upgraded amenities for families and visitors. Hospital officials say the goal is to create a more modern and supportive care environment that enhances both patient experience and clinical efficiency.
Interior work and systems installation will continue over the coming months as the project advances toward completion.