Guthrie Center, Iowa — February 9, 2026 — Guthrie County Hospital is proud to announce approval of a $46 million renovation project, marking a historic investment in the future of health care for Guthrie County and surrounding communities.
The comprehensive renovation will modernize existing facilities, expand clinical capabilities, and enhance patient-centered care while maintaining the hospital’s long-standing commitment to serving rural Iowa. The project is designed to improve patient experience, enhance patient privacy, support medical staff, and ensure the hospital can meet the evolving health care needs of the region for decades to come.
Hospital leadership has worked closely with hospital staff, architects, and construction partners to ensure the project reflects both best practices in modern health care design and the unique needs of our patients.
“Guthrie County Hospital has been a cornerstone of this community for decades,” said Christopher Stipe, Hospital CEO. “This project honors that legacy while building a facility that supports advanced care, workforce recruitment, and long-term sustainability. Having virtually no debt, the Hospital is in a strong financial position. With the assistance of the USDA, local banks, and other financial partners, we feel it is the right time to proceed with the project.”
The project includes new construction for the lobby, laboratory, sleep lab, IV services area, MRI addition, and kitchen with updated serving and dining spaces. Clinic and specialty clinic areas, along with the physical therapy and fitness center, will be expanded and remodeled. Updates and improvements are also planned for the emergency room, surgical department, and inpatient rooms. In addition, the renovation will include a new conference center with meeting rooms available for community use.
“Guthrie County Hospital is one of the most important institutions serving Guthrie County. Continuing to update health care services is essential to meeting the needs of all residents, particularly as the county’s population continues to age,” said Brian Johnson, Guthrie County Supervisor.
The renovation and expansion will be completed in phases over thirty months to minimize disruption to patient care and hospital operations.
“This renovation represents more than brick and mortar—it’s an investment in the health, safety, and well-being of our community,” said Dennis Flanery, Director of the Guthrie County Hospital Foundation. “By upgrading our facilities, we are ensuring that high-quality, accessible care remains close to home for future generations. This is a great way to kick off our 75th anniversary for the hospital.”
Additional details, including project timelines and opportunities for community engagement and support, will be shared in the coming months by the Hospital and the Foundation.
For more information about the renovation or the Guthrie County Hospital Foundation, please visit https://guthriecountyhospital.org/ or contact Dennis Flanery at 641-332-3879.