Moving forward: County approvals clear the way for new hospital
With recent approvals from the Fayette County Commissioners, Adena Health is taking the next big step toward building the new Adena Fayette Medical Center.
Why did Adena meet with the Fayette County Commissioners?
Adena Health met with the Fayette County Commissioners to finalize a few key steps that will help move the new hospital project into its next phase. These included:
Approving Adena’s use of the current hospital property for the new facility.
Supporting a financing arrangement that helps manage project costs through a commonly used tool called a conduit bond.
Both of these items were unanimously approved following a public hearing – a standard step that ensures community transparency, invites public input, and keeps decision-making open and informed.
What’s a public hearing?
Public hearings are formal meetings where project details are shared, questions are answered, and community feedback is welcomed before final decisions are made. They are a regular part of the process for major public-benefit projects like hospitals, schools, and infrastructure improvements.
Are taxpayer dollars being used to build the new hospital?
No, local taxpayer dollars are not being used to build the new hospital.
Adena Health is funding the project through a mix of private financing, operating revenue, state and federal grants, and community contributions. To help lower the overall costs of the project, Fayette County agreed to act as a conduit issuer – a common arrangement that helps nonprofits like Adena access financing that comes with lower interest rates.
Fayette County and its residents have no financial responsibility for the project. The county isn’t backing the loan or guaranteeing repayment, and the full financial commitment rests with Adena. This approach allows for a significant investment in local health care while fully protecting public funds.
Why did the county need to be involved?
Fayette County Memorial Hospital (FCMH) was originally established as a county-owned facility in 1950. Over the years, as health care grew more complex, the need for long-term sustainability and expanded services became clear. In 2018, FCMH and Adena Health began working together more closely, and by 2021, the hospital officially became part of Adena.
That transition in 2021 – which was approved by the FCMH Board of Trustees, the Adena Board, and the Fayette County Commissioners – helped preserve and strengthen local health care by bringing it into a broader, well-resourced system.
Today, the county’s involvement in this new project reflects its historical connection to the land and its continued commitment to local health care access. These approvals ensure that the new hospital can be built on the same trusted campus that has served our community for decades.
While the structure has evolved, the hospital’s roots in the community remain just as strong. Adena is an independent, not-for-profit, and locally governed organization, meaning there are no shareholders. Every dollar is reinvested into patient care, facilities, and services that directly benefit the people we serve.
What’s next?
Construction is expected to begin summer 2025, with the new hospital opening in 2027.
The current hospital will stay fully open and operational throughout construction. Patient care, hospital services, and emergency access will continue without interruption during the entire project.
Philanthropic contributions from the community will also help fund enhancements that further elevate patient care, building on Adena’s core investment.
We’re proud to make this investment in the future of health care in Fayette County, and even prouder to do it in partnership with our local leaders and community. This project reflects a shared commitment to building what’s next for our region’s health. We’re grateful for the continued support and collaboration of the Fayette County Commissioners, the Adena Health Foundation, our Adena boards, AFMC providers and caregivers, and the many others whose dedication is bringing this vision to life.
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