ECU Health: $220M Capital Projects Proposed
- ECU Health is proposing a $220 million capital project that aims to establish North Carolina's first rural emergency hospital.
- A key component involves converting the former Martin General Hospital in Williamston, N.C., into a rural emergency hospital. The 49-bed hospital had closed in August 2023 after filing...
- While the initial reopening would utilize the existing Martin General facility, ECU Health intends to request $70 million in state funding to construct a permanent building.
ECU Health is making major moves, with a proposed $220 million capital project that could reshape healthcare access in North Carolina. The plan centers on reopening a closed hospital in Williamston, transforming it into the state’s pioneering rural emergency hospital—a critical step for the community. This initiative, detailed in a recent public hearing, also earmarks funds to expand the ECU Health Beaufort Hospital campus. The project aims to address the growing demand for healthcare services. News Directory 3 is following this significant advancement closely. What are the implications for the community, and what’s the timeline? Discover what’s next as the Martin County Board of Commissioners considers the proposal.
ECU Health Plans Rural Emergency Hospital in North Carolina
Updated June 07, 2025
ECU Health is proposing a $220 million capital project that aims to establish North Carolina’s first rural emergency hospital. The plan, unveiled during a public hearing June 4, also includes expanding the ECU Health Beaufort Hospital campus in Washington, N.C.
A key component involves converting the former Martin General Hospital in Williamston, N.C., into a rural emergency hospital. The 49-bed hospital had closed in August 2023 after filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. ECU Health signed a nonbinding proposal with Martin County in May to pursue the conversion.
While the initial reopening would utilize the existing Martin General facility, ECU Health intends to request $70 million in state funding to construct a permanent building. The new facility would offer space for expanded outpatient services, according to the health system.
In addition to the rural emergency hospital, the nonprofit system is seeking $150 million to increase inpatient capacity at ECU Health Beaufort Hospital.
The Martin County Board of Commissioners is currently evaluating the proposal and public feedback to determine the next steps, according to a news release issued june 5.
What’s next
The Martin County Board of Commissioners will review public input before deciding how to proceed with the ECU health proposal for the rural emergency hospital and related projects.