North Valley Hospital plans $900,000 Nucleus Avenue expansion

North Valley Hospital announced Jan. 28 it will soon be building a new physical therapy facility on Nucleus Avenue in Columbia Falls.

The expansion will not impact the community center at the location, which is used by numerous civic groups, hospital spokeswoman Allison Linville explained.

The expansion is expected to cost about $900,000 and will add about 3,000 square feet onto the current facility.

Currently three physical therapists work at the location, though the expansion will accommodate more staff. The new facility will also include a 24-by-30 foot gym.

“As a healthcare partner in Columbia Falls since 1988, we are excited to have this opportunity to join in the effort to revitalize Nucleus Avenue, invest in the community, and to provide improved care for our patients in a new, state-of-the-art physical therapy facility,” Kevin Abel, CEO of North Valley Hospital said in a release.

The hospital has hired Jackola Engineering and Architecture, PC and Hammerquist Caseglano to design and construct the new clinic.

Groundbreaking is expected in the spring, with project completion expected before winter. The new building will be located on the northwest corner of the lot where the existing center is.

In addition, the hospital is also supporting the development of the Boys and Girls Club of Glacier Country - HUB community center in Columbia Falls with a $25,000 pledge to support a meeting/gathering room in its new proposed building adjacent to Ruder Elementary School.

“Being a strong partner is important to us at North Valley Hospital, and as Columbia Falls grows, we are answering the need to provide more patient services and updated facilities to meet the needs of our patients and community,” Abel said.