St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital marked a major milestone with a ceremonial “first bite” of demolition on May 21, which will make way for the future Pagidipati Children’s Hospital at St. Joseph’s. Designed to succeed the current St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital — Tampa Bay’s largest provider of pediatric health care — the new hospital will deliver world-class care in a vibrant, welcoming environment that inspires hope and healing for generations to come.
Patients, team members, board members, BayCare leaders and community partners gathered to witness the moment a dinosaur-painted excavator took its first symbolic bite out of the existing parking garage, clearing the way for a new, state-of-the-art facility scheduled to open in 2030.
“This is more than just a construction milestone. It’s the beginning of something transformational,” said Sarah Naumowich, president of St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital. “Behind us stands a parking garage, but in front of us stands the future home of the Pagidipati Children’s Hospital at St. Joseph’s, a place designed entirely around children and families.”
Her remarks underscored the significance of the day — not only as the start of demolition, but as the first step in creating a space where innovation, healing and family-centered care come together in new ways.
The ceremony also highlighted the generosity and vision of the Pagidipati family, whose support is helping make the new hospital possible. Their commitment, alongside the broader community, reflects a shared investment in the future of children’s health in the region.
As the dust settled from the ceremonial first bite, the meaning of the moment was clear: this was more than the start of demolition. For St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital and the families it serves, the first bite represents a bold step forward and a promise of what’s to come.
For more information: St. Joseph's Children's Hospital.
