The Department of Defense today announced construction approval of a new Navy hospital for Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. The $500 million project is funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009 and is one of the two largest Defense Department projects included in the stimulus bill. The new hospital will replace the current Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton (NHCP), which was designed in 1969 with construction completed in 1974.

The new multi-story replacement Naval Hospital will be located on the South Mesa portion of the base in the vicinity of the Oceanside gate, Commissary and Exchange complex to allow easy access for patients. It will provide the latest in inpatient and outpatient technology, and improve the ability to remain fully operational after an earthquake. The building is expected to be more than 500,000 square feet and the estimated cost is more than $500 million. Construction is anticipated to begin in late 2010. The building should be complete in 2013 and equipped and fully operational by 2014.

"Navy Medicine proudly provides top quality health care for Sailors and Marines around the world. This new facility will ensure that we comply fully with new seismic safety standards and continue to deliver the most advanced medical care to the growing population of Marines, Sailors, family members, and retired service members on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. We sincerely appreciate the support of our nation's leaders for this important project," said Commander, Navy Medicine West, Rear Adm. Christine S. Hunter.

The replacement Naval Hospital will continue to provide the full spectrum of medical care from maternity and newborn care to adult intensive care. This includes: an inpatient medical facility, ancillary departments, emergency care, primary care, and specialty care clinics. The construction project will also include a parking structure. The exact number and types of inpatient beds required will be finalized based on ongoing reviews of current and future patient needs. "The care of our wounded warriors is paramount," said NHCP Commanding Officer, Capt. C. Forrest Faison III. "This new hospital will provide an environment to continuously provide the latest in care, and a 'medical home' for those recovering from physical or psychological injuries."

Care will continue uninterrupted in the current facility until the new building is complete and fully equipped. The current facility is well maintained and will be considered for alternate use.