Aspirus Hospital plans $227M expansion in Wausau with added 300 jobs

The Wausau Infrastructure & Facilities Committee convened on July 10, 2025, to discuss significant developments regarding local infrastructure, particularly the proposed expansion of the Wausau Hospital. The meeting featured a public hearing focused on vacating a section of Pine Ridge Boulevard to facilitate this expansion.

The committee began with a motion to approve the agenda, which passed unanimously. The main topic of discussion was the hospital's plan to vacate Pine Ridge Boulevard from North Eighth Avenue to West Hill Drive. This move is intended to support a substantial expansion of the hospital, which includes the addition of 72 new patient beds and a new emergency department parking lot.

Representatives from Aspirus, including Tom Renzo and hospital president Jeff Wicklander, presented details about the expansion. Wicklander emphasized the pressing need for increased healthcare capacity in Wausau and the surrounding Northwoods region, citing that the hospital currently operates at approximately 95% capacity. The proposed expansion is projected to be a $227 million investment, which is expected to create around 300 jobs over the next three to three and a half years.

The representatives highlighted that the expansion would not only enhance patient care but also improve the overall layout and accessibility of the hospital campus. They noted that the project aims to address the growing demand for higher acuity care in the area.

The committee welcomed questions from the public, indicating a collaborative approach to the planning process. The discussion underscored the importance of the hospital's expansion for the community's healthcare needs and the economic benefits it would bring.

As the meeting concluded, the committee acknowledged the significance of the proposed changes and the potential positive impact on local healthcare services. Further discussions and decisions regarding the project are anticipated in upcoming meetings.