WEAVERVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A hospital aimed at expanding access to health care in Western North Carolina moved a step closer to reality Thursday as AdventHealth leaders and state officials broke ground in Weaverville.

The project, announced after years of regional planning and collaboration, is expected to serve residents across Buncombe, Madison, Yancey and Graham counties, where access to care, especially in rural areas, has remained a persistent challenge.

Officials said the facility will bring emergency, inpatient and specialty services closer to communities that often travel long distances for treatment.

“This is more than a construction project,” said Mike Thompson, president and CEO of AdventHealth’s Southeast region. “It represents an investment in healing, wholeness and hope for Western North Carolina.”

Local leaders and health officials emphasized the need for expanded access, particularly in rural counties without hospitals. Madison County Health Director Tammy Cody said residents often face hour-long drives on mountain roads for emergency and routine care.

“Every extra mile can mean the difference between life and death,” Cody said. “This hospital will change that reality.”

Yancey County EMS Director Kristy Bryant said the new facility will reduce transport times for emergency responders and improve outcomes for patients.

“When seconds matter, distance matters,” Bryant said. “This brings care closer to home.”

Weaverville Mayor Dee Lawrence called the project a turning point for the region in health care access and economic development.

“This is not just about building a hospital,” the mayor said. “It’s about creating a stronger, healthier future for our community.”

Gov. Josh Stein said the hospital is expected to create about 1,300 jobs and increase access to primary and specialty care. He added that increased competition among providers could help lower costs and improve quality for patients.

The project also comes as the state continues to address rural health disparities. Stein noted that rural residents face higher rates of chronic disease and often have less access to care than those in urban areas.

“This hospital will save lives and improve the quality of care for people across this region,” Stein said.

In addition to emergency and inpatient services, the planned campus is expected to include advanced heart care, neonatal services and expanded outpatient care options.

AdventHealth leaders said the development could ultimately grow into a $1 billion regional medical hub.

The ceremony also included a moment of silence for a recently deceased Reems Creek Fire Chief Chris Dorsey, recognizing the contributions of first responders in the region.