JOHNSON CITY, TN — Skanska and Ballad Health celebrated the completion of an expansion of the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Niswonger Children’s Hospital with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by regional leaders, donors, and NICU alumni. The $53 million project establishes the newest NICU in Tennessee and southwest Virginia.
The two-story addition adds 43,000 square feet, featuring 48 private family rooms, replacing an open-bay design with spaces that allow parents to stay overnight with their babies during critical moments. The expansion also includes specialized twin rooms, a milk lab for advanced nutrition, and new equipment such as panda warmers to help regulate newborns’ body temperature.
Built vertically atop an active hospital, the project required careful coordination at every stage to ensure safety, maintain continuity of care, and minimize disruption. Work was delivered in carefully planned phases, using transparent communication and flexible scheduling around patient needs — allowing construction to progress while preserving full hospital operations.
Skanska played a critical role in bringing the vision to life, sooner than originally anticipated.
“We’re proud to partner with Ballad Health and the Children’s Hospital team on a project that will impact generations,” said David Stanley, Senior Superintendent with Skanska USA Building. “Delivering this expansion ahead of schedule reflects the dedication of everyone involved.”
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Alan Levine, Chairman and CEO of Ballad Health, opened the ribbon-cutting ceremony by reflecting on what the project means for families across the region.
“This NICU represents more than bricks and mortar; it’s a promise to every family in our region,” Levine said. “Because of the support from our donors, advocates, and team members, we’ve created a space where families can find hope through hard times. Every child deserves the best possible start, and this expansion helps us in bringing that mission to life.”
Dr. Seth Brown, Chief Medical Officer of Niswonger Children’s Network, highlighted the clinical benefits.
“Moving from an open-bay NICU to private rooms is a game-changer for patient care,” Brown said. “Parents can bond with their babies in a more comfortable environment, and our team can deliver advanced care with the latest technology. This expansion truly elevates neonatal care in our region.”
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With the expansion now complete, families across the Appalachian Highlands will have access to a modern, family centered NICU designed to meet complex neonatal needs. The new facility enhances clinical outcomes and strengthens the support network for parents.
