Newman Regional Health is launching a major capital campaign that will lead to big changes.
Board of Trustees members unanimously approved a resolution to start the Building On campaign as part of Wednesday’s meeting. The resolution also authorizes engagement with Kinetic, the company that worked with Newman Regional Health to develop the plan, while affirming the implementation strategy and granting Chief Executive Officer Cathy Pimple the authority to execute the plan.
Building On, first announced in a public setting in December 2025, will modernize certain components of the hospital’s care environment while improving efficiency, patient flow and patient experience. It will also, as discussed for at least a decade, create a new patient tower above the emergency department and add first-floor space on the east edge — while demolishing the top floors on the east side and part of the north side area.
Pimple says Building On was developed in part because there are certain areas of the campus that range anywhere from 60 to over 100 years old, meaning higher maintenance and upkeep costs, inefficiencies and infrastructure either near or at the end of its life span.
The originally stated financial goal was $50 million, with up to $40 million generated by donations. The new total announced Wednesday has a total investment range between $46 million and $57 million. Some level of bond may well be needed, depending on funding from other sources, and the board also discussed refinancing certain bonds Wednesday. Board action will be needed to approve final bond-related decisions.
The level of donations and other non-bond funding is crucial to Building On, but it also comes with up to $27 million in infrastructure needs even if donations don’t reach goal.
