Published: June 23, 2026
As plans move forward for the new Norton Children’s pediatric care campus, including a second dedicated children’s hospital, the not-for-profit health system is asking the Shelby County community to help shape the project.
Norton Children’s will host a “Follow the Balloon” community listening session Tuesday, July 14, in the Blair Center at the Southside Elementary School campus from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The interactive session will give local families, leaders and anyone interested in the future of kids’ health an opportunity to learn more about campus plans, ask questions and share ideas.
The new campus will be built on 150 acres in Jeffersontown, Ky., less than 30 minutes from Shelbyville. Last year, Norton Children’s cared for nearly 7,500 kids from Shelby County – more than 75 percent of the pediatric population.
“We’re building more than a hospital – we’re building a future just for kids,” said Russell F. Cox, president and CEO of Norton Healthcare and Norton Children’s. “Because this campus will be built for every child and family, every voice matters in making this vision a reality.”
The campus is expected to care for children from across the region and around the country. A key priority will be supporting the mental and emotional well-being of kids and teens by bringing together mental health services with a full range of medical care.
“This is our promise to every child: world-class care, without barriers, for generations to come,” Cox said. “We invite Shelby County families and the entire community to join us in shaping that future.”
Register for the July 14 listening session here. Those who can’t attend are encouraged to fill out a short survey.