The Big Island's economy is poised for a boost with the ongoing expansion of the Hilo Benioff Medical Center. According to a recent report by the Hawaii Tribune-Herald, the $80 million project is moving forward, with certain areas potentially opening as early as the beginning of 2026. Full completion is anticipated by 2027. This expansion includes a new two-story medical office building, MOB 3, which will increase the hospital's capacity and allow for improvements to the existing urgent care facility in MOB 2.
The project is significant for the Hilo community, especially for local entrepreneurs. The hospital expansion will likely spur demand for various services, including construction, healthcare staffing, and related businesses. This increased activity can create new opportunities for investment and economic growth on the Big Island. The original announcement of the project was reported by Big Island Video News, offering some history of how the plans came to be.
The expansion has been fueled by a substantial donation. In March 2024, Marc and Lynne Benioff donated $50 million to Hilo Medical Center, part of a larger $150 million gift for healthcare infrastructure across the state. The Hilo Benioff Medical Center stated that the donation is intended to develop essential areas of care, including a state-of-the-art family birthing center, an intensive care unit, a neurosurgical program, and behavioral health services.
With completion on the horizon, the expansion is expected to have a ripple effect throughout the local economy. Healthcare professionals will see enhanced working environments, and entrepreneurs will find new avenues to serve the growing needs of the community. The Honolulu Star-Advertiser included that the expansion includes new intensive care and hospital bed capacity.
