Birmingham, AL, August 19, 2025
News Summary
The University of Alabama at Birmingham has launched a new $156.7 million inpatient rehabilitation pavilion featuring 134 patient beds. This state-of-the-art facility is designed for patients recovering from strokes, brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries, showcasing advanced therapy technologies and comprehensive care options. The pavilion also includes specialized amenities for families and outdoor spaces to enhance patient recovery and comfort.
UAB Unveils Cutting-Edge Inpatient Rehabilitation Pavilion in Birmingham
In an exciting development for the community, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) has just opened a brand new inpatient rehabilitation pavilion that promises to enhance patient recovery in remarkable ways. This impressive facility, which cost $156.7 million, spans an expansive area and is equipped with 134 patient beds, specifically designed to cater to individuals recovering from strokes, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other similar conditions.
State-of-the-Art Features for Comprehensive Care
The new pavilion is not just another building; it features advanced therapy technologies and a thoughtful design that aims to revolutionize how patients recover. Among the standout features are three therapy gyms, spacious private therapy rooms, and specialized areas dedicated to neurorehabilitation care. This means that patients will receive personalized attention in an environment that is conducive to healing.
What’s particularly noteworthy is the pavilion’s integrated state-of-the-art seizure monitoring unit, which is designed specifically for patients living with epilepsy. This unit supports clinical care, research initiatives, and educational efforts, all in one cohesive space.
Bright Spaces for Healing Minds
In alignment with current trends in healthcare design, the pavilion emphasizes natural light through numerous floor-to-ceiling windows and offers several outdoor spaces. Patients and their families can enjoy the fresh air in the rooftop garden or practice mobility in the unique outdoor terrain park or simulated city streetscape. These areas allow patients to work on their mobility skills in a safe environment that mimics real-world situations, featuring various surfaces, curbs, and ramps.
Advanced Technologies and Recreational Facilities
With cutting-edge equipment like robotic arm devices, tilt tables, and virtual reality gait treadmills, the pavilion supports patients at all mobility levels. To cater to the needs of patients with brain injuries, a specially designed multisensory room is available to help alleviate anxiety and promote calmness.
Moreover, the recreational spaces, which include a putting green and a basketball court, provide therapeutic opportunities for patients to engage in enjoyable activities as part of their recovery process. An in-clinic auto simulator even assists patients with practicing car transfers safely.
Family-Friendly Amenities
Understanding the vital role that family support plays in recovery, the pavilion also offers comfortable family amenities. These include lounge areas, laundry and nourishment stations, and outdoor terraces with stunning city views. There’s even a convenient drop-off area for easier access. One of the most delightful additions is UAB’s first facility dog, Topgun (or “Toppy”), who is on-site to assist in therapy sessions and boost patient morale.
A Commitment to the Future of Rehabilitation
This new rehabilitation pavilion replaces the existing Spain Rehabilitation Center for inpatient services while outpatient rehabilitation will continue at the original facility. With its groundbreaking in May 2022, this establishment not only updates an aging infrastructure, built in 1964, but also positions UAB as a leader in state-of-the-art recovery care.
The pavilion’s design features Alabama and Birmingham-themed artwork throughout the building, reinforcing a connection to the local culture. UAB leadership emphasizes this project as a significant promise to patients, symbolizing hope and healing for the community.
Conclusion
As UAB continues to innovate in patient care, this new inpatient rehabilitation pavilion stands as a beacon of hope, equipped with the latest technology and a compassionate approach to healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of patients will the pavilion serve?
The pavilion primarily serves patients recovering from strokes, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other related conditions.
What advanced technologies are available in the pavilion?
The pavilion features technologies such as robotic arm devices, tilt tables, virtual reality gait treadmills, and a multisensory room for brain injury patients.
Are there amenities for friends and family?
Yes, the pavilion includes lounge areas, laundry and nourishment stations, outdoor terraces, and more to support families during their loved ones’ recovery.
What recreational activities are offered?
Patients can take part in therapeutic activities such as using a putting green and basketball court, as well as practicing mobility on outdoor terrains.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | $156.7 Million |
| Patient Capacity | 134 Beds |
| Key Patient Focus | Strokes, Brain Injuries, Spinal Cord Injuries |
| Advanced Technologies | Robotic Arm Devices, Virtual Reality Treadmills |
| Recreational Amenities | Putting Green, Basketball Court |
| Outdoor Spaces | Rooftop Garden, Terrain Park |
| Family Amenities | Lounge Areas, Laundry Stations |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Rehabilitation Pavilion Opens at UAB in Birmingham
Additional Resources
- WBRC: UAB Cuts Ribbon on New Rehabilitation Pavilion
- Wikipedia: University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Trussville Tribune: UAB Opens $156.7 Million Rehabilitation Pavilion
- Google Search: UAB Rehabilitation Pavilion
- Bham Now: UAB Opens New $157M Inpatient Rehab Facility
- Google Scholar: UAB Rehabilitation Pavilion
- CBS 42: UAB Celebrates Opening of Rehabilitation Pavilion
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rehabilitation Centers
- WVTM 13: UAB Medicine New Rehabilitation Center
- Google News: UAB Rehabilitation

Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.


