Construction is underway at Newman Regional Health on the 3-West wing, according to the architect involved with the project.
Architect Trever Lewis told board members Wednesday that the wing has been gutted and the project is underway. The wing will have 11 hospital rooms, complete with an overhead lift system, shower and toilet. The rooms will be smaller, Lewis said, but will accommodate one patient and some visitors. Each of the rooms will be private. There will be all new doors, new hardware, new floor coverings, ceilings and light fixtures, Lewis said.
“It’s going to be neat,” he said.
During their meeting, board members agreed to spend $71,372 to update the main elevator used by patients and visitors. They also approved an additional $150,000 to allow the hospital’s new orthopedic surgeon to purchase new equipment.
“I think there’s probably some equipment that we will need to purchase with both surgeons working at the same time,” said Holly French, chief financial officer.