Skanska and Ballad Health celebrated the completion of a transformative 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 hospital is located at 400 N State of Franklin Rd.
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 state-of-the-art 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 seamlessly 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. Delivering this expansion ahead of schedule reflects the dedication of everyone involved.”
David Stanley, senior superintendent with Skanska USA Building.
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,” said Levine. “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.”
That promise was brought to life by stories from NICU graduates, including David Snyder, who began life in the NICU and now works as a respiratory therapist at Johnson City Medical Center and Niswonger Children’s Hospital.
“My twin sister Kaitlyn and I started our lives in the NICU, and today I’m caring for patients at the same place that gave us a fighting chance,” said Snyder. “This expansion means more families will have the support and resources they need during critical times. It’s an incredible full-circle moment for us.”
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,” said Brown. “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.”
With the expansion now complete, families across the Appalachian Highlands will have access to a modern, family-centered NICU designed to meet the most complex neonatal needs. The new facility enhances clinical outcomes and strengthens the support network for parents navigating some of their most challenging moments.
The expanded NICU at Niswonger Children’s Hospital marks a major step forward in Ballad Health’s commitment to improving pediatric care across the region, and Skanska is humbled to have had a part in supporting that vision.
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