University of Utah Health, University Hospital, NICU Expansion

Exceptional precision was required to expand the University of Utah Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit with seven new NICU stations—an essential expansion to cover the shortage of NICU beds and additional space needed for medically fragile infants, their families, and caregivers. In more detail, each new station was equipped with medical-gas infrastructure and a custom Hill-Rom headwall systems. Critical program elements such as privacy curtains, staff lockers, dedicated milk refrigeration, new acoustical ceiling systems, and modifications to the existing MEP infrastructure required meticulous coordination. Working within an active NICU and ensuring the safety of patients, families, and clinical staff demanded heightened sensitivity, rigorous infection-control practices, and strict adherence to ICRA protocols. Early investigation, planning, and selective demolition were instrumental in setting the project up for success and maintaining a smooth workflow throughout the five-month schedule. The team placed strong emphasis on PACE planning, communication, and proactive coordination, ultimately delivering a seamless project in one of the hospital’s most sensitive environments.

Cultural and personal connection: Fortis pursued this project with enthusiasm around the meaningful and long-term impact it would have on infants and their families. The team entered the project with a comprehensive plan and began collaborating immediately with NICU leadership and medical teams—on floors both above and below the construction zone—to prevent disruptions to patient care.