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Fort Smith Today
By the People, for the People
Mercy Announces $60 Million Expansion Plan for Fort Smith
Three-phase project will expand services, upgrade facilities, and enhance technology to improve patient care.
Apr. 7, 2026 at 10:34pm
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Mercy's planned $60 million investment in Fort Smith will upgrade facilities and enhance technology to deliver more advanced, accessible healthcare services to the community.Fort Smith TodayMercy has announced a three-phase, $60 million investment plan to expand services, upgrade facilities, and enhance technology at its Fort Smith, Arkansas location. The first phase of the project will focus on expanding key areas of care, increasing access to advanced diagnostic and treatment services, and improving patient comfort and safety.
Why it matters
Mercy's investment in Fort Smith reflects the healthcare provider's long-standing commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the River Valley community. The upgrades and expansions are designed to strengthen Mercy's ability to deliver high-quality care close to home for local residents.
The details
Phase 1 of the project will focus on expanding and enhancing key areas of care across Mercy's Fort Smith campus, including procedural services, imaging, clinics, and inpatient spaces. Planned improvements are aimed at supporting growing patient needs, increasing access to advanced diagnostic and treatment services, and improving patient comfort and safety. Additional enhancements will strengthen laboratory and imaging capabilities, expand preventive services, and update patient rooms.
- Mercy announced the first phase of the three-phase project on April 7, 2026.
- The $60 million investment plan is expected to be completed over the next few years.
The players
Mercy
A healthcare provider with a long history of serving the Fort Smith, Arkansas community, dating back to the arrival of the Sisters of Mercy in 1853.
Ryan Gehrig
President of Mercy Fort Smith Communities, overseeing the healthcare provider's operations in the region.
David Argueta
Mercy's senior vice president and president of community operations, responsible for the organization's strategic investments and expansions.
What they’re saying
“Mercy has cared for this community for more than a century, and this investment reflects our commitment to continue stepping up when the River Valley needs us most.”
— Ryan Gehrig, President of Mercy Fort Smith Communities
“These investments build on a legacy that spans generations. Phase 1 is just the beginning. We're committed to ensuring the Fort Smith area has the resources, technology and caregivers this area needs for today and for decades to come.”
— David Argueta, Mercy's Senior Vice President and President of Community Operations
What’s next
Future phases of the investment plan will focus on additional facility enhancements, further physician and caregiver integration, clinical expansions, and technology upgrades to continue strengthening Mercy's ability to serve the Fort Smith community.
The takeaway
Mercy's substantial investment in its Fort Smith operations demonstrates the healthcare provider's long-term commitment to the River Valley region. The planned expansions and upgrades will enable Mercy to better meet the evolving healthcare needs of local residents, reinforcing its position as a trusted community partner.
