Stamford Health To Undergo $275 Million Campus Transformation

STAMFORD, CT — Stamford Health recently announced a multi-year, $275 million plan to transform its Bennett Medical Center Campus, including the construction of a new cancer center, expansion of behavioral health services, relocation of an inpatient rehabilitation unit and parking improvements.

The project is intended to modernize infrastructure and expand services at the campus, which includes Stamford Hospital. Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with facilities opening in phases over the following years.

"We are Connecticut’s most highly awarded hospital, and the No. 1 Hospital in Fairfield County according to U.S. News & World Report," Stamford Health President and Chief Executive Officer Kathleen Silard said in an announcement.

"As an independent health system, we are proud to continue growing and investing in our facilities and staff. That, coupled with our outstanding quality and patient experience recognitions, sets us apart from any other health system in Connecticut. We are incredibly grateful to our donors and the state, who recognize the quality of care we provide by supporting our work."

The plan includes construction of a new 73,000-square-foot, free-standing Carl & Dorothy Bennett Cancer Center on the southwest corner of the campus. Stamford Health said the facility will increase patient capacity and support expanded cancer treatment and wellness services. The health system's cancer program operates in collaboration with Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center.

Under the proposal, the existing Bennett Cancer Center would be converted into a two-floor behavioral health facility. Stamford Health said the project would increase capacity and add a Partial Hospitalization Program and outpatient interventional psychiatric services.

The health system said behavioral health was identified as the top unmet community need in its Community Health Needs Assessment.

Stamford Health recently expanded inpatient behavioral health capacity and opened an outpatient behavioral health practice serving adults, with pediatric services planned. The initiatives have been supported by philanthropy and a $750,000 federal grant.

"This plan represents a transformational step for Stamford Health and the patients and families we serve," Stamford Health Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Liz Longmore said. "It reflects our commitment to delivering world-class care across oncology, behavioral health, and rehabilitation, while creating modern, state-of-the-art spaces that ensure our patients continue to receive the highest-quality care, close to home."

The plan also calls for relocating the Van Munching Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit from its current location to the fourth floor of Stamford Hospital. The upgraded unit would include 20 private rooms, specialized brain injury care spaces, rehabilitation equipment and expanded recreational areas.

In addition, Stamford Health plans to create new permanent parking options for patients, visitors and staff to support the campus expansion and increased patient access.

According to Stamford Health, the Stamford Hospital Foundation will conduct a philanthropic campaign to fund a significant portion of the project.