North Carolina Construction News staff writer
Duke Health and CaroMont Health have submitted applications for state approval to build two hospitals in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, with the facilities potentially opening in 2031.
The proposed hospitals would include a 120-bed facility in the University City area and an 80-bed facility in the River District, adding capacity in northern and western Mecklenburg County.
The health systems announced the partnership and their Certificate of Need applications on Oct. 20, saying the projects would help address healthcare demand in the rapidly growing Charlotte region.
The applications seek approval for 200 beds, representing part of the 389 additional beds identified as needed in Mecklenburg County under the 2026 North Carolina State Medical Facilities Plan.
Much of the county’s advanced hospital care is concentrated in and around Uptown Charlotte. The proposed facilities are intended to expand access to specialty and advanced care closer to where patients live and work.
If approved, the hospitals would be owned and operated by a new company equally owned and jointly led by Duke Health and CaroMont Health. Both organizations would remain independent, with their existing facilities, services and patient care relationships continuing separately.
Duke Health would contribute its academic medical expertise, including specialty and subspecialty care, clinical research, medical education and clinical innovation. CaroMont Health would bring its regional healthcare network, physician practices and experience serving Gaston County and surrounding communities.
“The rapidly growing Charlotte region needs more access to care and more options for the highest quality care locally,” said David W. Zaas, chief executive officer of Duke University Health System.
CaroMont Health President and CEO Chris Peek said the partnership would expand healthcare choices and advanced care for patients in the region.
The specific services and clinical capabilities planned for each hospital campus are still being developed.
The Certificate of Need applications are proceeding through North Carolina’s state review process. The organizations anticipate a decision by the end of March 2027.
If the applications are approved and development proceeds as planned, the hospitals could open in 2031.