Hospital Expansion Project Prompts 2nd Town Hall In Morristown

MORRISTOWN, NJ — A second meeting has been scheduled to provide more details on the long-anticipated plans for a major expansion of Morristown Medical Center, Morris County's largest healthcare facility.

Last month, Atlantic Health hosted a 'Town Hall' meeting to share their updated vision for the future of Morristown Medical Center, following the release of initial plans last year that sparked controversy among residents.

Read More: Possible Expansion Of Morristown Medical Center Spurs Public Concern

The town hall took place shortly after Morristown officials released a statement acknowledging that more time was needed before presenting the project to the public.

"We believe it would be irresponsible to move forward with the public engagement process without ensuring that all information has been reviewed by our professionals and available to the public to ensure that they have a complete picture," Mayor Timothy Dougherty's administration said.

The expansion project, which has been in the works for over two years, includes the construction of a new 11-story building, which will add 180 ICU-capable beds, 20 surgical suites, an imaging suite, a kitchen, a cafeteria and a new lobby.

Plans also call for an expansion of the Goryeb Children's Hospital, which will add two additional levels to the existing building, along with 25 new inpatient beds and enhanced family-centered care, officials said.

The hospital said they plan to break ground in the first quarter of 2025, with the project expected to be fully completed by 2030.

According to Atlantic Health, the expansion will improve access to critical healthcare services, increase available space, and provide specialized treatments that may not be available locally. Additionally, the project is expected to "create jobs and boost the local economy, while maintaining the Morristown area’s reputation for a high quality of life."

A second Town Hall meeting has been scheduled for Thursday evening at 7 p.m. and will be held in the 3rd Floor Senior Center at 200 South Street, Morristown, officials said.

Once again, Morristown officials and Atlantic Health have emphasized their commitment to transparent communication throughout the expansion process.

"This is a proposal. We want your feedback, your thoughts," Trish O'Keefe, President of Morristown Medical Center, said.