Catholic Medical Center breaks ground on Nashua's first freestanding emergency room
Manchester, N.H. — Catholic Medical Center (CMC), part of the HCA Healthcare family, today celebrated the groundbreaking of Nashua’s first freestanding emergency room, marking a major step forward in expanding access to emergency care in southern New Hampshire.
The ceremony was held at 338 Amherst Street, the site of the former Leda Lanes bowling center, where the 11,000-square-foot facility is currently undergoing renovation. The emergency room represents a $16 million investment in the community and is expected to open in mid-2026.
The event began with a blessing from the Most Reverend Bishop Peter A. Libasci, D.D, Bishop of Manchester, who recited the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:36) — a powerful reminder that compassionate care for those in need is at the heart of healthcare, and a reflection of CMC’s mission to providing health, healing and hope to all who seek care.
“This groundbreaking represents more than bricks and mortar — it’s a commitment to the health and safety of this community,” said John Skevington, chief executive officer of CMC. “We’re proud to bring fast, expert care to Nashua, complementing the hospitals and clinics already serving the region. Emergencies don’t wait, and neither should patients.”
Once open, the Nashua Emergency Room will offer:
- 11 emergency bays, including a trauma bay;
- advanced diagnostic imaging (CT, ultrasound, radiology);
- on-site laboratory services;
- a covered ambulance entrance; and,
- dedicated pediatric waiting and treatment areas.
Staffed by board-certified emergency physicians and approximately 30 clinical professionals, the emergency room will be equipped to treat high-acuity conditions such as cardiac arrest, stroke and severe injuries — delivering the same level of care found in hospital-based emergency departments.
Dr. Trevor Eide, HCA Healthcare New Hampshire’s Regional Chief of Emergency Medicine, spoke at the event about the importance of timely care.
“The ER is often the front door for patients experiencing medical emergencies,” said Dr. Eide. “Delays in care can have serious consequences. That’s why this facility is so important.”
Unlike urgent care centers, which typically operate limited hours and treat lower-acuity conditions, freestanding emergency rooms provide full-service, 24/7 emergency care. HCA Healthcare already operates freestanding emergency rooms in Seabrook, Dover and Plaistow, which have earned high marks for fast, attentive care and strong clinical outcomes.
The new Nashua Emergency Room will also bring economic benefits to the city, contributing to the local tax base and creating new healthcare jobs. Patients who require hospitalization will have the option to be admitted to Catholic Medical Center in Manchester — home to the region’s leading cardiovascular program—or choose care at another health system if they prefer.