HOUSTON – Harris Health System is planning a major expansion of Ben Taub Hospital by acquiring nearly nine acres of Hermann Park, located just across the street, to build a new trauma center tower.
This move aims to address the growing trauma care needs in Harris County.
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Ben Taub is currently one of only two Level One trauma centers in Harris County, but it is consistently operating over capacity.
According to Harris Health System CEO Esmaeil Porsa, expanding the hospital is a necessary step to improve trauma care for the entire community.
Porsa says the existing Ben Taub Hospital building itself is too old to expand and the only feasible option is to build the new tower on adjacent parkland in Hermann Park.
The new tower, projected to cost $420 million, will be funded by a voter-approved bond. It will add 100 to 110 new hospital beds and will be connected to the existing hospital via a skybridge for seamless access to all services.
The plan to acquire park land has raised concerns. The land in question was originally gifted to the city by the Warneke family with the understanding that it would remain a park. Legally, Harris Health may need to use eminent domain to acquire the land but emphasizes that fair compensation will be provided to any rights holders.
“The process will be long and thorough,” stated Porsa. “We will make every effort to identify and notify every person with a legal interest in the land.”
There is a positive aspect for Hermann Park lovers in the plan. After building the new tower, Harris Health intends to construct a new Ben Taub Hospital next to the tower and then demolish the current hospital building.
“It is our intention to then surrender the existing land that Ben Taub sits on, including the parking garage, to the City of Houston so it can be used for park purposes,” said Porsa.“That land is currently more than 11 acres. So yes, we are taking over nine acres of land, park land today. But fully intend to return back to the city, 11 acres of land that can be used for park purposes.”
The Harris Health board is expected to vote in late September to formally begin this process. Even if approved, construction could take years to start.
Leaders at Harris Health promise to keep the public informed and involved throughout the lengthy process.