Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center Expansion

The Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center, owned and operated by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR), serves as a vital healthcare facility in Pendleton, Oregon. To meet growing community needs, CTUIR pursued a 9,200-square-foot expansion using a progressive design-build delivery model. The project introduced essential upgrades, including a dedicated Elder entrance, expanded laboratory, new mammography room, additional restrooms, and storage areas.

Akana partnered with BnBuilders and NBBJ as part of the design team, providing civil, structural, and landscape services. The expansion reflects CTUIR’s commitment to culturally attuned care while improving operational capacity. A new 5,300-square-foot medical wing includes six exam rooms, an isolation room, bariatric room, two procedure rooms, and expanded offices—enhancing the clinic’s ability to serve a growing patient population.

A culturally significant feature of the project is the Elder entrance, designed to honor CTUIR traditions and improve accessibility. This step-free entry connects directly to parking and includes a protective canopy, ensuring Elders can access care with dignity and ease.

Integration of new systems within an active facility posed unique challenges. Akana collaborated closely with CTUIR members, staff, and design professionals through four workshops to align on budget, logistics, and cultural priorities. The result is a facility that blends technical excellence with cultural respect, setting a benchmark for future healthcare projects in Native communities.