BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A major expansion to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital’s North Pavilion stands out as one of the state’s largest new construction projects this past week. According to recently issued building permits, the North Pavilion project is one of 11 new million-dollar-plus developments in Alabama, totaling more than $100 million in value.

Leading the pack is a $43 million permit for a new student facility at The University of Alabama, followed closely by a $38 million permit for the North Pavilion expansion at UAB Hospital — part of a larger $73 million emergency department overhaul across the university health system.

The expansion aims to boost UAB’s emergency care capabilities by adding 59 new exam rooms and more imaging resources. In total, the project includes 66,030 square feet of new construction and a complete renovation of critical areas in and around the hospital’s North Pavilion.

Key features of the expansion include:

• Renovations to the first floor of UAB Hospital’s North Pavilion
• Conversion of the adjacent atrium into a clinical care space
• Construction of a new three-story structure in the current patient drop-off drive

The effort reflects UAB Health System’s ongoing commitment to improving emergency services and patient care capacity as the region continues to experience population growth and rising demand for medical services.

“Expansion of UAB Hospital’s North Pavilion will add 59 more exam rooms,” according to a university release, underscoring the scale and importance of the development.

The new permit activity highlights broader investment trends across Alabama. According to Report Construction LLC, which tracks building permits statewide, these new projects mark continued strength in institutional, healthcare, and educational infrastructure spending.

Each week, the firm compiles details from permit offices across the state, offering valuable insights into construction activity and capital investment. Their latest report shows that both higher education and healthcare are driving large-scale developments.

With significant funding being directed toward student facilities and hospital infrastructure, Alabama’s construction economy remains robust. These types of projects not only enhance public services but also generate jobs and stimulate local economies throughout the design and build process.

Originally reported by Michael Seale in Bham Now.