Our Future. Together. JPS Breaks Ground on New Hospital
- jpshealth
- May 1
- 3 min read
On April 16, 2026, JPS Health Network officially broke ground on its new hospital, marking a major milestone in the transformation of healthcare in Tarrant County. More than 1,500 community members, partners, elected officials, and JPS team members gathered at the site to witness the start of construction.
The ceremony brought together a shared commitment to the future of healthcare in Tarrant County and affirmed the role JPS Health Network will continue to play in caring for a growing community.
Set against the Fort Worth skyline, the former parking lot now serves as the foundation for a new hospital that will anchor a modern, connected campus designed to expand access, support advanced care, and strengthen the patient experience for generations to come.
The ceremony's program opened with the Tarrant County Honor Guard presenting the colors, followed a powerful rendition of the National Anthem by Dr. Tricia Elliott, setting the tone for a meaningful and community-centered celebration. Commissioner Roderick Miles Jr. offered the invocation, grounding the moment in purpose and service.
NBC 5’s Kristi Nelson served as emcee, guiding the audience through a program that reflected both the scale of the project and the people behind it. Her presence added energy and familiarity, connecting the event to the broader Fort Worth community.
Dr. Karen Duncan, President and Chief Executive Officer of JPS Health Network, delivered remarks that focused on the significance of the day.
“We are here not just to break ground on a new hospital, but to fulfill a promise. A promise that everyone in this county deserves access to exceptional and compassionate care.”
That message was reinforced by a distinguished group of speakers, including JPS Board Chair D.T. Nguyen, Tarrant County Judge Tim O’Hare, and Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker. Each spoke to the importance of long-term investment in healthcare infrastructure and the role JPS plays in supporting the health and vitality of the region.
Mayor Parker’s remarks brought a deeply personal perspective, recalling a moment when JPS team members supported a Fort Worth police officer's family during an unimaginable loss. Her story highlighted the compassion, coordination, and professionalism that define care at JPS every day.
The program also elevated voices from within the organization and the next generation of healthcare leaders.
Dr. Brian Webb, Chair of Orthopaedic Surgery, reflected on his journey at JPS and the importance of creating an environment that supports clinical excellence and education.
“This new hospital will give our residents an environment that reflects the future of healthcare. It will strengthen how we train, collaborate, and deliver care.”
Debra-Jul Akanmu, a SHINE fellow and aspiring physician, spoke about the impact of JPS on her path to medicine and her commitment to serving the community.
Her story resonated across the audience and reinforced the broader impact of this investment. The future hospital will expand access to care while also inspiring and preparing the next generation of providers.
Beyond the stage, the event reflected the strength of community partnerships.
Near Southside businesses and local vendors created an atmosphere that was welcoming, vibrant, and distinctly Fort Worth. Guests connected with community partners while enjoying refreshments and interactive experiences, including contributions from SiNaCa Studios, Kahwa Coffee, MELT Ice Creams, and other neighborhood businesses.
CareFlite brought a helicopter to the site and completed a live landing, offering a powerful visual reminder of the critical role emergency transport plays in the region’s healthcare system. The Fort Worth Fire Department also participated, reinforcing the close coordination between JPS and first responders who serve the community every day.
Following the program, attendees gathered for the ceremonial shovel turn, where JPS leaders and community officials marked the official start of construction. The moment was met with applause, pride, and a shared understanding of what lies ahead.
The new hospital represents a coordinated effort to expand capacity, strengthen access, and support a model of care that is integrated, efficient, and built for the future.
Every day, JPS team members deliver high-quality, compassionate care across Tarrant County. This next chapter builds on that foundation and positions JPS Health Network to meet the evolving needs of the community with confidence and purpose.
Our future is taking shape. Together.
See photos from the event here.
