Context:

North Carolina is set to build its first standalone children's hospital in Apex, a suburb of Raleigh, which will bring an estimated 8,000 jobs to the area. UNC Health and Duke Health are collaborating on this 500-bed pediatric hospital project, which will include facilities like a children's outpatient care center, over 100 behavioral health beds, and a research and education center. The 230-acre campus will be part of the Veridea mixed-use development, featuring residential, retail, and educational spaces. The project is expected to cost between $2 billion and $3 billion, with $320 million already secured from state legislators and additional funding negotiations underway. Construction is slated to begin in 2027, with completion anticipated in six years, promising significant advances in pediatric care in the region.

Dive Deeper:

• North Carolina's first standalone children's hospital will be constructed in Apex, a rapidly growing suburb of Raleigh, bringing approximately 8,000 jobs to the area.

• The project is a joint effort by UNC Health and Duke Health, featuring a 500-bed pediatric hospital and associated facilities, marking a significant expansion in pediatric healthcare services.

• Situated on a 230-acre site, the campus will include a children's outpatient care center, over 100 behavioral health beds, and a research and education center linked to Duke and UNC medical schools.

• The hospital will be part of the Veridea development, which plans to integrate thousands of new homes, retail, dining, office, and research spaces, along with a new Wake Technical Community College campus.

• The project is estimated to cost between $2 billion and $3 billion, with $320 million already allocated by state legislators, and further funding is being negotiated.

• Construction is expected to commence in 2027 and take approximately six years, significantly enhancing healthcare access for children and adolescents across North Carolina and beyond.

• Duke and UNC leaders emphasize the project's role in maintaining the Triangle as a hub for top pediatric scientists, educators, and clinicians, providing advanced medical interventions for children in need.