BELPRE — Governor Mike DeWine joined healthcare and community leaders on Tuesday to break ground on a new women and children’s hospital at Memorial Health System’s Belpre Medical Campus.

The new facility, which will be southeast Ohio’s only hospital dedicated to women and children, is expected to significantly improve access to specialized healthcare in the region.

“This is a welcome and needed addition for thousands of women, mothers, babies, and children across our Appalachian region,” said Governor DeWine.

“Expectant mothers with high-risk pregnancies, babies born prematurely, or others in need of specialized healthcare supports will no longer be forced to travel an hour or more to get medical care in an unfamiliar place. This new hospital will bring these lifesaving supports closer to home.”

The state has provided $30 million in funding for the $125 million project through the FY2024-2025 State Operating Budget.

The hospital will feature specialized prenatal services, a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), and expanded mental health services for mothers experiencing postpartum depression.

Memorial Health System, in partnership with Akron Children’s Hospital, will operate the facility, which is scheduled to open in fall 2026.

The hospital is expected to handle 1,600 births annually, doubling the capacity of current services.

The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also played a crucial role in preparing the site, ensuring the removal of hazardous materials from the former industrial location.

This project follows a series of investments by the state in Ohio’s Appalachian region, including the Appalachian Children’s Health Initiative, which aims to improve healthcare access and support economic development.