When Will Phase 2 Open?

Now that construction of phase 2 has ended, this is the question on everyone's mind. Ours too! Work crews completed some final items earlier this week, and both exterior and interior signage will be posted in about a month. We expect to apply to the Illinois Department of Public Health this week to request our occupancy permit. It's likely the IDPH will be on-site in about 30 days to inspect the wing. After the visit, they have another 30 days (roughly) to issue the permit. No one can move into or use the space until the IDPH issues the occupancy permit.

Fun fact

There has been much discussion about the artwork hanging in phase 2, which is wonderful, because art should prompt conversation, thought and emotion. In addition to the beautiful works from local artists (selected by an art jury and then hung at the direction of our interior designer), we are fortunate to have some gorgeous prints in other hallways and office space. These works were selected by Heather Fullington, the project's interior designer. What's really interesting is that these pieces came from a company called American Art Resources. The company works exclusively with hospital and other healthcare organizations to - as their vision statement says - "improve the lives of patients, their families and care givers through healthcare art programs that are deisgned to be far more than decoration."

Long Term Care

As renovation of the East Wing progresses, you'll notice some chagnes to our Long Term Care Unit. Our crack maintentance team has relocated the nurses' station to the solarium (it will move back after work is complete), and a temporary wall has been set up creating a very short corridor that leads you into the unit. Signs have been posted to direct visitors to the nurses' station and to Medical Records. However, as construction in all areas moves forward, please remember to take "lost" patients and visitors to their destinations, not just point the way.

Emergency Room

Work progresses on the Emergency Room project, as well. The walls of the new patient bays have been primed and painted. More construction will be coming as we get closer to the ER renovation.