Progress continues on a new intensive care unit (ICU) and major electric upgrades to East Kootenay Regional Hospital.

The new building structure is complete and work has moved to putting on the roof and constructing the exterior walls.  Major equipment is on site, including two new diesel generators that will provide back-up power to the entire hospital in the event of a broader power outage in the community.

The framing of the interior walls continues alongside the installation of the electrical, plumbing and heating services for the new ICU.  The rebuilding of the corridor to link the new ICU to the rest of the hospital will be a main focus going into 2015.

Work will continue on site from approximately 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. throughout the winter and will steadily be more focused on the interior of the new structure.

There will be periodic interruptions to normal traffic patterns during construction. Interior Health is working with the project contractor to minimize these impacts and appreciates the ongoing patience of local residents and visitors to the hospital as these major improvements to EKRH move forward.

The approximate total project cost of the redevelopment project at EKRH is $20 million. Funding is provided by the province, Kootenay East Regional Hospital District and East Kootenay Foundation for Health, which is contributing towards the clinical equipment.

The new ICU unit will replace the current four-bed unit and feature two additional high-acuity beds, which will address current and future needs. The integrated design includes a 787-square-metre (approximately 8,470-square-feet) addition on the northeast side of the existing hospital. The size and design of the new ICU will provide for an improved work environment for physicians and staff, and added privacy for patients and their visitors. The enhanced care environment for patients will feature integrated family spaces and maximized natural light.

The project also includes a significant electrical upgrade at the facility. The new electrical system will improve the power supply to the entire hospital, optimize the electrical system performance and allow capacity to expand for future power needs. The electrical infrastructure will be located in the basement of the new addition.

Lark Projects Ltd. is the contractor overseeing the project, with full project completion anticipated for mid-2016.

Interior Health

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