A new $12.2 million facility is set to open in September 2025, thanks to a $10.25 million bond approved by voters, along with federal and state funding. This facility, part of a $15.5 million project, will significantly expand the Nehalem Bay Health District’s capacity and services. In addition to a new health center and pharmacy, the project includes overhauling the district’s senior care facility and converting the current health center into housing.
Marc Johnson, Chair of the Nehalem Bay Health District Board, emphasized that the facility aims to enhance regional healthcare by attracting and retaining more healthcare professionals. Planning for the project began in 2018 as part of a strategic update to address the district’s need for upgraded clinical spaces and staff housing.
The site for the new facility in Wheeler was identified by Tillamook County Commissioner Erin Skaar during her tenure as director of CARE. After touring potential housing development sites, Skaar recognized the potential of a parcel opposite Wheeler City Hall on Hospital Road, previously occupied by a health center and pharmacy. Despite initial plans to build housing above a clinic, the district opted to construct a new facility and repurpose the existing site for housing, following extensive strategic planning.
Funding efforts commenced with the purchase of the Wheeler property in 2021 for $260,015. Early financial support included a CARE grant for site planning and due diligence, bolstered by $3 million from the federal OMNIBUS spending bill in 2022 and an additional $2 million from the state, with a further $500,000 federal allocation in 2023.
The project required substantial local support, culminating in a successful $10.25 million bond approval in May 2023, endorsed by nearly 70% of voters. Jerry Spegman, president of the nonprofit overseeing the health center and pharmacy, commended the community’s foresight and commitment to a long-term investment.
Design development ensued, incorporating feedback from health center and pharmacy staff who lease their facilities from the district. The new 16,000-square-foot building, designed by Scott Edwards Architects, will house medical and dental clinics, a pharmacy, and expanded facilities including 14 exam rooms, an enlarged pharmacy, a dental suite, an X-ray room, and meeting facilities.
Construction management will be overseen by Bremik Construction, supported by the Klosh Group. At the groundbreaking ceremony, local officials and representatives including Senator Jeff Merkley and Suzanne Bonamici expressed their support for the project, underscoring its significance for the community.
The district is currently progressing with the senior care facility renovations initiated in February, pending results of a hazardous materials assessment at the former health center and pharmacy site before proceeding with demolition and redevelopment plans.
