Pardon Our Progress: Updates Berkeley Medical Center’s New Patient Tower and Entrance Changes 

WVU Medicine Berkeley Medical Center continues to make steady progress on the new patient tower project, part of a historic $260 million investment to expand healthcare access in the Eastern Panhandle. This project represents a major step forward for our community, increasing hospital capacity and enhancing the overall patient and visitor experience. The new tower is expected to open in early 2028. 

Where are we now?  

In February, construction crews began blocking off part of the parking lot to lay the groundwork for what will become the new patient tower.   

To support ongoing construction and to prepare for future entrance changes, access near Surgical Services will be adjusted.  Patients visiting Surgical Services will notice new North Entrance signs on campus.  Patients visiting Same Day Surgery or the Catheterization Lab are to use this entrance.    

All other patients and visitors are encouraged to utilize the Main Entrance.  

These changes are necessary to complete new registration and concierge areas that will help improve patient flow and wayfinding into the next phase of construction. 

Looking ahead: Main entrance transition planned for May 

In May, as work continues, the main entrance will close, and all patients and visitors will be asked to use the North Entrance.  

We recognize construction can create temporary inconvenience, and we appreciate the community’s patience as this work moves forward. Patients and visitors are encouraged to allow extra time for arrival and to watch on-site signage and traffic flow updates. 

Our goal is to maintain safe access and clear directions at every step. Please follow posted signage on campus and ask your care team if you have any questions.  

Visitor FAQ: Construction & Hospital Access 

Will Berkeley Medical Center remain open during construction? Yes. Berkeley Medical Center will remain open and continue providing care throughout all phases of construction. 

Where should I park if I’m visiting the hospital? Parking will remain available, but a portion of the current patient parking area will be fenced off. Please allow extra time, follow directional signage, and use available lots as indicated on campus. 

Will I still be able to enter through the Surgical Services/North Entrance? Between February and May patients and visitors for Surgical Services and the Cath Lab are encouraged to use the North Entrance.  All other patients and visitors should use the main entrance until May.  

Is the main entrance closing? If so, when? Yes. The main entrance is planned to close in May as part of the next construction phase. The area currently being updated near the North Entrance will serve as a main entry point during that time.  

Will appointments or visiting hours change because of construction? Most appointments and services will continue as scheduled. If a specific clinic or service location changes, patients will be notified directly. We recommend arriving a bit early to accommodate parking and wayfinding adjustments. 

How will I know where to go once I arrive? Both construction and updated wayfinding signage will be posted throughout the campus. If you’re unsure where to enter or park, please ask any team member for help. 

Why is the hospital expanding? The new patient tower supports continued growth in the region and will expand access to care by increasing inpatient capacity, modernizing patient rooms, and improving amenities and parking. 

What is happening near the Dorothy A. McCormack building?  WVU Hospitals East began a major improvement project at the Dorothy A. McCormack Center in January. Construction to install a new linear accelerator, significantly enhancing our radiation therapy services, will run through October. This upgrade will allow patients to receive more advanced and precise cancer treatment close to home and supports our long‑term commitment to expanding high‑quality care in the Eastern Panhandle. 

What is happening near Medical Office building 3 and the outpatient surgery center? Construction beside Medical Office Building 3, across from Berkeley Medical Center, is part of Phase 1 of our tower project. This phase includes building a new parking lot and a pedestrian bridge that will eventually span above Tennessee Avenue. The parking lot is expected to open in May 2026, and the pedestrian bridge will be completed in late 2026.