HOUSTON, TX — Skanska USA Building announces the successful completion of the historic renovation of Riverside General Hospital in the Third Ward in Houston, Texas, now home to the Harris County Public Health Department. The project revitalizes the hospital, a landmark on the National Register of Historic Places, preserving its legacy while transforming it into a modern civic asset.
Originally opened in 1926 and dedicated on Juneteenth as the first nonprofit hospital in Houston dedicated to Black patients and the site of the city’s first school for Black nurses, the Houston Negro Hospital (later renamed Riverside General Hospital) holds a significant place in the region’s social and medical history.
The scope of work encompassed a 20,772-square-foot adaptive reuse renovation of the main hospital building, the former nursing school, and an adjacent utility structure.
Skanska’s team delivered the project with meticulous attention to historic preservation, retaining original architectural elements such as exposed brick and plaster while integrating new mechanical, electrical, and life-safety systems to support contemporary public-health functions.
“Projects like Riverside Hospital remind us that buildings are more than structures; they carry the memories and meaning of the communities they serve,” said Dennis Yung, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Skanska Texas. “We were honored to partner with Commissioner Rodney Ellis and Harris County Public Health to restore and renew this historic facility so it can continue serving the community for many years to come.”
“Like many people in this community, I have a personal tie to Riverside General Hospital," Ellis said. "I was born there. My sister was born there. I am grateful to know that its legacy will live on as we continue to expand access to health care for underserved communities.”
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In addition to honoring Riverside’s legacy, the revitalized facility features modern office space, research and development areas, and public-serving amenities designed to support Harris County Public Health’s mission of expanding access to essential health services across the region. The renovation was delivered in alignment with sustainable building practices and is targeting LEED certification.
