Belmont Abbey and CaroMont Health Announce Lease Agreement

BELMONT, NC – Last Friday, leaders from CaroMont Health and Belmont Abbey College signed a property lease for the future location of CaroMont Regional Medical Center-Belmont. Adjacent to the campus of Belmont Abbey College, the hospital will offer convenient access to Interstate 85 and Highway 273 in eastern Gaston County. The long-term lease agreement will allow CaroMont Health to begin construction on the property next spring with an expected opening of 2023.

“The monks of Belmont Abbey happily welcome this exciting opportunity for Belmont Abbey College and CaroMont Health to combine our shared values and cooperate in promoting the welfare of our Gaston County community and its future growth and prosperity," said Abbot Placid Solari, O.S.B., of the Belmont Abbey monastic community.

The Southern Benedictine Society and Belmont Abbey College entered into the lease with CaroMont Health following unanimous support from the monks of Belmont Abbey received earlier this month.

“Bringing together two remarkable and storied institutions, the partnership between CaroMont Health, a leading healthcare provider, and Belmont Abbey College, a leading institution of higher education, is a game-changer for the region and beyond. We are excited about the opportunity to collaborate with CaroMont Health to provide the highest levels of medical care and academic excellence,” said Dr. Bill Thierfelder, president of Belmont Abbey College.

While clinical programs and services are still being planned for CaroMont Regional Medical Center-Belmont, the facility will offer an emergency department, a 66-bed inpatient unit for patients requiring admission or observation, operating rooms and surgical capabilities, a labor and delivery unit, and a full suite of diagnostic testing and imaging services. Medical office buildings for outpatient services and physician offices are also planned for the campus.

“Belmont Abbey College exemplifies the true spirit of our community – one of progress, integrity, excellence and virtue – and shares many of our core values,” said Chris Peek, President and CEO of CaroMont Health. “Much like healthcare, education has the unique ability to enrich and support not only the recipient, but also all who surround them. A highly regarded institution like Belmont Abbey, focused on the advancement of others, strengthens our community. We are proud to be part of such a historic moment.”