Modernizing a Lifeline Hospital — Without Missing a Beat
Harborview serves over 16,000 patients each year in facilities originally built to 1970s standards. With just 540 beds and growing demand across trauma, behavioral health, and acute care services, the medical center urgently needed modernization. Yet its dense urban location and 24/7 operations posed a major challenge: how do you deliver large-scale improvements without disrupting critical care?
The answer: phased planning, precise sequencing, and a design-build team deeply experienced in healthcare delivery.
Throughout construction, Harborview will remain 100% operational—a testament to the coordination and care driving every phase of the program.
Building a Safer, Smarter Future
The Harborview Bond Program is a comprehensive, multi-phase initiative designed to meet today’s needs while preparing for tomorrow’s challenges. Key elements include:
- A new 10-story inpatient medical tower built to advanced seismic and sustainability standards
- A major expansion of the emergency department to serve increasing demand
- Infrastructure modernization to support long-term performance and resilience
Working closely with King County and UW Medicine, the design-build team is advancing a plan that will bring this vision to life while ensuring seamless care delivery throughout the process. Construction is expected to begin in 2027 or 2028, with phased work planned to keep the hospital fully operational every step of the way.
A Commitment Backed by Numbers
- $1.74 billion public investment approved by voters
- Five-state WWAMI region served by Harborview
- 10-story inpatient medical tower at the heart of the transformation
- 540+ beds modernized and expanded
- Designed to meet LEED sustainability goals
Designed for Resilience — and for the Community It Serves
At its core, this project expands access to lifesaving care for the people who need it most. The new inpatient tower will house trauma and acute care in a modern, patient-centered environment. Infrastructure improvements will support long-term reliability, while the expanded emergency department will ensure faster, more dignified care for patients in urgent need.
Elevating the Patient and Provider Experience
Every element of the program is designed to improve care delivery and support the people at the heart of Harborview:
- Modern, adaptable care spaces with improved access and flow
- Infrastructure that supports long-term system resilience
- Dignified, equitable environments for patients, staff, and visitors
Building for the Long Term
Harborview’s transformation is more than a capital program—it’s a public promise. From environmental sustainability to health equity and regional resilience, this work represents a bold, forward-looking investment in the future of care.
With voter trust, stakeholder alignment, and a deeply collaborative team, this once-in-a-generation program will ensure Harborview continues to serve as a beacon of hope, safety, and healing for decades to come.