Building the Next Phase of Care
The Franciscan Health Munster Expansion reached a major milestone on July 24, 2026, when crews set the final structural steel beam for the new hospital expansion. The project continues the growth of the Franciscan Health Munster campus and follows the earlier vertical expansion completed above the existing Cancer Center. The current expansion adds new hospital space and supporting infrastructure to meet growing healthcare needs in Munster and the surrounding community.
The project began with extensive foundation and site work. Crews completed rammed aggregate piers, foundation walls, spread footings, underground utilities, and improvements to the existing helipad. As work progressed, structural steel erection began while remaining foundation activities continued. The team also advanced Central Utility Plant work and an accelerated Retail Pharmacy build-out within the active hospital.
Planning Around an Active Hospital
Working within an operating healthcare campus requires careful planning at every stage. Tonn and Blank coordinates construction activities with Franciscan Health staff to protect hospital operations and maintain safe movement for patients, visitors, and employees. The team plans access, deliveries, crane operations, and work areas around ongoing clinical activity. This coordination allows construction to advance while the hospital continues serving its patients.
The project also incorporates off-site construction methods to support interior progress. The team confirmed production of 50 prefabricated exam rooms and 30 bathroom pods in the modular shop. Tonn and Blank also self-performs cast-in-place concrete, doors, frames and hardware, casework, wall protection, and toilet accessory installation. These capabilities provide greater control over construction activities while supporting consistent installation and coordination across the project.
Reaching the Topping Out Milestone
The topping out ceremony recognized the progress made since construction began. Before the final beam was lifted, Franciscan Health Munster staff, Franciscan Alliance leaders, and Tonn and Blank team members signed the beam with their names and well wishes. A traditional blessing followed before crews raised and secured the beam into place.
The milestone marks an important point in the Franciscan Health Munster Expansion, but construction continues across the site. Work remains focused on advancing the building, completing supporting infrastructure, and maintaining coordination with the active hospital. When complete, the expansion will provide additional space for healthcare services and support Franciscan Health’s ability to serve patients throughout Munster and Northwest Indiana.
