Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) in Thomaston, Georgia, US, has reportedly broken ground on a $40m expansion project to enhance its intensive care unit (ICU) and women's centre.

The project will add 39,500ft² of new space and renovate an additional 5,480ft², which will “significantly improve the layout of the facility to adhere to modern standards of the highly specialised service area,” according to officials, reported Upson Beacon.

Addressing the gathering at the ground-breaking ceremony, URMC board chair Bill Hightower outlined the scope of the expansion.

Hightower said: “URMC operates the only obstetrical, neonatal, and ICU services in the immediate service area and is designated by the Georgia Department of Public Health as a Level II Maternal Center.

“The board of URMC is committed to providing the highest quality of healthcare to Upson County and the seven surrounding counties in our service area.”

The project will modernise the ICU and neonatal unit facilities, along with upgrading the technology and equipment in these areas.

Hightower added: “Thomaston and Upson County are very fortunate to have a modern and technologically advanced healthcare facility that can take care of most of our healthcare needs.”

URMC CEO Dan Owens reportedly stated that the project began in 2016 but was put on hold due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The ground-breaking event recognised the contributions of the board, staff, retired CEO Jeff Tarrant, commercial construction company Batson-Cook Construction, architect 2WR Architects, and others.

Construction is anticipated to reach completion by mid-2026.

During the construction phase, patients will have to enter through the main lobby on Cherokee Road or the old front lobby on West Gordon Street.

Access to the hospital's physical therapy, wellness centre, auditorium, or cafeteria entrances will be restricted until late 2025.