Another Northwest Arkansas employer is providing major support to the $167 million Arkansas Children’s Northwest hospital project.
The hospital announced on Thursday that J.B. Hunt Transport Services will give $5 million to the new 24-bed hospital that’s planned in western Springdale. The gift came just 10 days after Walmart and the Walmart Foundation provided $8 million to support the project.
“For more than 50 years, J.B. Hunt has believed in the importance of reinvesting in communities,” said John Roberts, J.B. Hunt’s president and CEO. “The construction of a children’s hospital in this community is a historic and necessary next step for the advancement of pediatric healthcare in the region. J.B. Hunt understands the impact a thriving children’s hospital in Northwest Arkansas will have on the children of this region. We are proud to step forward as a champion for children.”
In August 2015, Arkansas Children’s Hospital announced plans to build a freestanding children’s hospital on land donated by Robin and Gary George, Cathy and David Evans, and their families. Current plans for Arkansas Children’s Northwest include a 233,613 square foot facility with the 24 inpatient beds, 30 emergency department and urgent care exam rooms, 30 clinic exam rooms, five operating rooms, and diagnostic services. The 37-acre campus will include walking trails, gardens, and a helipad and refueling station.
“J.B. Hunt’s corporate citizenship is unwavering, and we are thrilled to continue our partnership as we realize this bold vision for care close to home,” said Marcy Doderer, president and CEO of Arkansas Children’s Hospital.
The hospital is scheduled to open in January 2018.
