Photo: The project will be constructed in phases, starting with the full-service pediatric hospital. | Photo Credit: Norton Childrens
By Lindsey Coulter
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Norton Children’s, a leading pediatric healthcare provider in Louisville, announced plans to build a new pediatric care campus that will include a full-service hospital, expanded specialty care and research facilities. The new development represents a major expansion for the health system and will become Norton’s second dedicated children’s hospital.
The new campus will be built on more than 150 acres near the intersection of Interstates 64 and 265 in Jefferson County. Norton officials said the project aims to create a national hub for advanced pediatric care.
“We believe it will be a national destination for lifesaving care — with virtually no limit to how we can shape what children’s health care and family support will look like in the future,” said Russell F. Cox, president and CEO of Norton Healthcare and Norton Children’s, in a statement. “Our vision is to build a village for pediatric care unlike anything Kentucky or the region has seen. This campus will bring together leading-edge technology; top pediatric specialists; and compassionate, family-centered care — all in one place.”
The project will be constructed in phases, starting with the full-service pediatric hospital. Future developments at the site are expected to include mental and behavioral health services, clinic space for pediatric specialists, and research centers focused on developing treatments and cures for childhood illnesses.
To help shape the project around community needs, Norton Children’s will host a series of listening sessions across Kentucky and Southern Indiana. The first sessions will begin in Louisville in July, with more planned in additional cities over the coming year.
The need for expanded pediatric care is growing across the United States, as national data shows increasing rates of childhood obesity and ongoing demand for specialized treatment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 20% of children ages 6 to 11 are obese, placing them at risk for future health complications. Many of the leading causes of death for children—including accidents, cancer and congenital disorders—often require long-term, specialized care.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear praised the project, calling it a transformative step for the state’s health care and economy.
“Our doctors and scientists are going to take research and innovation to a new level,” Beshear said in a statement issued by Norton Children’s Hospital. “And we are going to build one of — if not the — largest pediatric health campuses in the country, creating 1,000 jobs for this hospital. That makes this the largest jobs announcement in Kentucky this year.”
The average salary for employees at the new hospital is projected to be approximately $60,000. Norton Children’s has not yet announced a groundbreaking date but said it will be shared once finalized.
Cox emphasized the importance of community participation as the project moves forward.
“The community’s support has always been key to Norton Children’s growth and success,” he said. “That support will be more important than ever as we move ahead, and we look forward to our upcoming listening sessions.”
More details about the campus and updates on listening sessions will be posted at NortonChildrens.com/new-campus.
