PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Workers put the final beam into place Wednesday for the 26-story “Roberts Children’s Health Tower” at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, or CHOP, marking a major milestone in the hospital’s expansion.
“There’s no project that will have more impact to this city than what’s happening right behind us,” said Comcast Chairman Brian Roberts, standing in front of the tower.
Roberts’ family made a record $125 million gift to make the project possible. Joined by dozens of patients, he signed the final beam, with wishes for the future, before it was lifted to the top of the tower.
“I wish to fly one day,” one said. “My wish is for a magical pet,” said another. Roberts had his own favorite.
“My dream is to become a nurse anaesthetist so I can help people. And own a Porsche,” he said.
CHOP CEO Madeline Bell said the beam is symbolic of the whole project, which sought input from patients, parents, and staff.
“It’s really designed with the child in mind who is a digital native and will want technology helping them order their meals and have on-demand stories and all kinds of things that are important to children as they're hospitalized,” she explained.
The tower is the largest project in CHOP’s 170-year history. It will expand the hospital’s capacity with 700 private rooms, along with specialized procedure rooms and enhanced family facilities. Bell said the tower is designed to be a global destination for pediatric care, with state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment areas.
The tower is expected to open in 2028.