COLUMBUS -- Recently, it was learned that Columbus is trying to become a blue zone. Now, one hospital helps the city reach its new health goals.

"It doesn't make sense that we want more people coming to the hospital, but that's truly what we're after," said Brett Bonwell, past chairman of the board of directors at Columbus Community Hospital. 

Columbus Community Hospital is on its way to deliver a new fieldhouse, like an athletic center. It's part of their response to a city study that found Columbus needs to kick up its wellness.

"Eating healthier, moving more can reduce hypertension, strokes, diabetes, obesity," said Dr. Jeffrey Gotschall, community physician, and chair of the building grounds committee. He noted that they've seen some health issues in the community and that's why they want to encourage people of all ages to get moving and playing. 

Wednesday, the hospital broke ground on addition which will offer options for that through tennis courts, a football field, soccer field, volleyball courts, basketball courts, and golf simulators; addressing both elders and youth health. 

"We'd like to partner with local high schools to set up job site tours," said Joe Jelden, senior project manager at JE Dunn Construction.

It's expected to cost a couple years of time and around 50 million dollars, so long as shipping and supply shortages don't worsen.

"Obviously, it's been a struggle over the past 18 months with the pandemic and all the pressure that's put on us," CCH CEO Michael Hansen said. 

The design team tells NCN they're working around that with making plans minimalistic, while also making the design complementary to the hospital. 

"It will not only help wellness in the community but attract new people to the city," Bonwell said.