(MURFREESBORO)  Ascension St. Thomas brings another first for Rutherford County. The ground breaking happened at noon Thursday (8/20/2020) for a first of its kind ambulatory surgical center at the New Salem Highway (SR 99) and St. Andrews Drive.

The multi-specialist ambulatory care center is a joint-venture between Ascension Saint Thomas and United Surgical Partners International, the nation's largest ambulatory services provider with over 400 facilities. USPI serves more than 3.4 million patients per year.

Construction of the 13,000 square foot New Salem Surgery Center is expected to take approximately 14 months. The project is being built on 3-acres at an investment of approximately $13 million.

Opening remarks were provided by Chamber of Commerce’ Membership Development President Kelli Beam, who discussed Rutherford County's growing healthcare needs.

Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital President and CEO Gordon Ferguson explained how the new surgery center complements the recent hospital expansion by providing an access point for convenient care in the heart of the New Salem community. 

Dr. Lindsay Keith with Ascension Medical Group/Saint Thomas Medical Partners attended on behalf of the facility's group of physician investors. The blessing of the ground was led by Vice President of Mission Integration for the local hospital Tracey Biles. Chris Hartshorn, Market President for United Surgical Partners International, gave closing remarks. 

The activities concluded with the ceremonial shoveling of the dirt.