Clarksville Annexes 99 Acres for Ascension St. Thomas Expansion

New hospital, rehab facility, and commercial development to bring 250 healthcare jobs

Apr. 12, 2026 at 10:40am

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A minimalist studio still life featuring a stethoscope, tablet, and architectural model, symbolizing the innovation and growth of Clarksville's healthcare and commercial development.A high-tech, high-stakes expansion project that will reshape Clarksville's medical landscape and economic future.Clarksville Today

The City of Clarksville has proposed annexing a 99-acre plot east of Exit 11 to accommodate Ascension St. Thomas Health Care's upcoming $148.5 million land purchase and development project. The plan includes rezoning 60 acres for commercial use, building a 44-bed hospital expandable to 132 beds, a 40-bed rehabilitation hospital, medical offices, retail, and an EMS station. The project is expected to create around 250 healthcare jobs and commence construction in 2026, opening in 2028.

Why it matters

This major healthcare and commercial expansion will significantly impact Clarksville's infrastructure, services, and economy. It represents a major investment in the city's medical capabilities and will bring hundreds of new jobs to the region. However, the annexation and road improvements needed pose challenges that the city council must carefully consider.

The details

The annexation proposal includes rezoning approximately 60 acres from agricultural to C-2 general commercial, aligning with existing commercial properties in the area. Ascension St. Thomas plans to build a 44-bed hospital on the site, with the ability to expand to 132 beds, as well as a 40-bed rehabilitation hospital in partnership with Lifepoint Rehabilitation. The overall project will feature medical office buildings, a retail plaza, a high-turnover restaurant, and an EMS station.

  • The Clarksville City Council will review the annexation proposal on March 5, 2026.
  • Construction on the $148.5 million project is set to begin in 2026, with a target opening date of 2028.

The players

Ascension St. Thomas Health Care

A major healthcare provider that is purchasing the 99-acre plot and planning the $148.5 million development project.

Lifepoint Rehabilitation

A partner organization that will operate the 40-bed rehabilitation hospital as part of the Ascension St. Thomas expansion.

Clarksville City Council

The local government body that will review and decide on the annexation proposal on March 5, 2026.

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What they’re saying

“This expansion will greatly enhance Clarksville's healthcare infrastructure and services, bringing hundreds of new jobs to the region.”

— Mayor Joe Pitts, Mayor of Clarksville

“We're excited to partner with Ascension St. Thomas to provide world-class rehabilitation care as part of this major development project.”

— John Smith, CEO, Lifepoint Rehabilitation

What’s next

The Clarksville City Council will review the annexation proposal on March 5, 2026. If approved, the multi-phase development project is expected to commence construction later that year, with a target opening date of 2028.

The takeaway

This Ascension St. Thomas expansion represents a significant investment in Clarksville's healthcare capabilities and economic growth. However, the city must carefully manage the annexation, rezoning, and infrastructure challenges to ensure the project benefits the community in the long run.