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Restore and renew: Rockwell City clinic expansion breaks ground

Project includes new construction, renovation

Restore and Renew: Rockwell City clinic expansion breaks ground

Project includes new construction, renovations

ROCKWELL CITY – Stewart Memorial Hospital and Clinics celebrated the groundbreaking of the Rockwell City Clinic Expansion on Sunday. The project marks a significant investment in the future of health care for Rockwell City and surrounding communities.

Community members, donors, employees, and the project committee gathered to celebrate the milestone and the vision behind the expansion, which will improve access to care, create updated exam and treatment spaces for patients, and support the growing health care needs of the area.

"As health care needs continue to evolve, the Restore and Renew Rockwell City Clinic expansion ensures Stewart Memorial is prepared to serve patients today and for generations to come," said Linn Block, chief executive officer of Stewart Memorial Hospital and Clinics. "We knew we could do better for our patients."

This two-phase construction and renovation project will create spaces designed to serve the needs of patients, families, and providers.

The first phase includes construction of a new clinic located next to Fareway on County Road D20 in Rockwell City.

The new clinic will provide space for:

Family practice

Behavioral health services

Laboratory services

Radiology services

Community pharmacy

The facility will feature improved patient flow, private behavioral health rooms, and updated outpatient areas. The expanded space will also create opportunities to welcome additional providers and services to the Rockwell City community. Completion is expected in fall 2027.

"This project gives us the ability to continue offering healthcare services that address the needs of our community," said Block. "We want people to have access to the care they need while remaining close to their families, homes, and support systems."

Currently, rehabilitation services are located in the lower level of the Rockwell City Clinic. Hospital administration felt that patients recovering from procedures, injuries, or illnesses deserve spaces that better support their recovery.

Rehabilitation services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy services will move from the lower level into fully accessible spaces on the main floor, designed to better support patients throughout their recovery. The expanded center will serve seniors working to maintain mobility; adults recovering after surgery or illness; and children receiving pediatric therapy services.

"This project is about creating a place where people feel supported through every stage of life," said Rachel Judisch, director of business development and foundation at Stewart Memorial Hospital and Clinics. "Whether someone is recovering through therapy, seeking behavioral health support, or receiving routine care, these spaces will help us continue providing services that make a difference for our patients and families."

The Stewart Memorial Foundation has launched a public campaign with a goal of $1 million in private support for the Restore and Renew project. The total project is valued just under $6 million and senior leaders do not anticipate any taxpayer funding will be utilized for the expansion. Fundraising efforts are being guided by a campaign committee, which includes community members, employees, and supporters dedicated to helping bring the vision to life.

"This project represents the generosity and commitment of our community," said Jo Grodahl, co-chair of the Restore and Renew Capital Campaign Committee and president of the Stewart Memorial Foundation. "The support behind this effort will create a lasting impact by providing spaces where patients can receive care and recover. This is an opportunity for our community to invest in health care that will serve their families for generations."

The Restore and Renew Capital Campaign Committee includes co-chairs Grodahl and Peg Stoolman, Rockwell City Clinic employee representative, along with committee members Marcie Boerner, Dave Staver, Brad Assman, Barb Dettman, Craig Aljets, Pomeroy representative, Kerri and Earl McAlexander, Janet Haub, Peggy Neubaum, and Stewart Memorial senior team representatives.