University of Iowa Health Care is moving forward with a $24 million project to complete and fill existing shell space at its North Liberty Medical Center. The expansion comes after the center’s first year of operation saw demand far surpass initial projections.
The two-phase project, which received approval from the Iowa Board of Regents in fall 2025, has a total budget of $24 million.
The first phase is a 5,300-square-foot build-out on the second floor. This phase will construct four operating rooms, four post-anesthesia care unit rooms and eight surgery prep and recovery rooms. Construction is expected to begin in late 2026, pending final approval from the Regents.
The second phase calls for building out 6,400 square feet on the fourth floor. This space will feature a clinical exam pod with 12 exam rooms, a treatment room, an X-ray room and office and supply space.
The expansion is necessary to accommodate high patient volume, according to Brad Haws, associate vice president for UI Health Care and CEO of the clinical enterprise.
“Since opening in late April 2025, the number of patients seen at the North Liberty campus has far surpassed our initial projections,” Haws said. “By finishing the existing shell space, we’ll be better equipped to accommodate the continued — and increasing — demand for our care and expertise in orthopedic surgical and clinical services.”
Since the center opened, it has recorded more than 138,500 patient encounters, including over 142,300 outpatient orthopedic visits. Patients from all of Iowa’s 99 counties have received care at the center.
