Norton Children’s to host listening session in Madison to shape new pediatric care campus

Madison community input will guide services, design and patient experience

Renderings of potential campus

MADISON, In. (Feb. 18, 2026) — As plans move forward for a new Norton Children’s pediatric care campus, including a second dedicated children’s hospital in the region, the not-forprofit health system is inviting the Madison community to help shape the project.

Norton Children’s will host a “Follow the Balloon” community listening session Tuesday, March 3 at Madison Junior High School 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 the future campus, ask questions and share ideas.

The session reflects Norton Children’s commitment to ensuring Madison and southern Indiana communities have a voice in creating the campus, which will be built on 150 acres in Jeffersontown, Ky.

“We’re building more than a hospital. We’re building a future just for kids,” said Russell F. Cox, president and CEO, Norton Healthcare, the parent organization of 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 families and the Madison community to join us in shaping that future.”

Register for the March 3 listening session here. Those who can’t attend are encouraged to fill out a short survey.