The hum of construction is a familiar sound at CCMH these days, and for good reason! The hospital is in the midst of a major remodeling and expansion project. When completed, the project will significantly enhance the services CCMH offers to its patients.
Construction Phases
Matt Foster, Project Superintendent with Graham Construction, is a seasoned construction professional with over 20 years of experience. Foster says the CCMH project is unique.
“The challenges of this project are found in its intricate phasing. Unlike a typical construction project, where work progresses sequentially from one area to the next, the CCMH expansion involves simultaneous work in multiple zones. Currently, the focus is split between the Rehab Services area and the Medical Clinic addition. This approach allows for efficient use of ‘trade partners’ – the skilled subcontractors specializing in plumbing, electrical, framing, drywall, and more – maximizing productivity and keeping the project on track, both in terms of budget and schedule.”
Overcoming Hurdles
One of the biggest hurdles in any hospital construction project is minimizing disruption and ensuring the safety of patients and staff. Foster explained the extensive measures taken to contain the construction zone.
“Temporary walls, painted and sealed for a presentable appearance, separate the construction area from the rest of the hospital. Negative air machines and air scrubbers constantly filter the air, preventing dust and contaminants from escaping. Even the movement of construction workers is carefully managed through ‘anterooms.’ These anterooms function as airlocks to contain any potential debris to prevent it from entering the main hospital area. These precautions, while often unseen by the public, are critical for maintaining a safe and healthy environment.”
Behind the Scenes
Beyond the visible construction, a great deal of behind-the-scenes work is happening. Foster highlighted the complexities of managing the HVAC systems installation and integration.
“Properly installing and integrating the ventilation and electrical systems ensures existing hospital operations remain unaffected while new areas are being developed. What people can’t see right now is all the work being done in the Rehab Services area. That portion of the remodel is well underway. Framing is complete, MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) systems are installed, and drywalling is in progress. Painting and finishing touches will follow soon.”
Look Out For Trucks and Equipment
Major exterior work is still in progress. Foster cautioned that ongoing construction activity means equipment, including delivery trucks and cranes, will still be present on site.
“We’re working pretty diligently to coordinate these activities and minimize any potential traffic issues, but visitors are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings. Please be patient with us. If there are any traffic disruptions, we will do our best to keep it to a minimum.”
Where Are We in The Process?
The Medical Clinic expansion is making significant strides toward completion according to Foster.
“The steel structure and roof deck are in place, and the focus has shifted to thawing the ground within the new space to prepare for the underground plumbing and mechanical work. Pouring the concrete floors is a major upcoming milestone, and the roof installation will allow interior work to proceed regardless of weather conditions. Framing, MEP installation, drywalling, painting, and finishes will follow, mirroring the process in the Rehab Services area.”
Foster is excited about the changes that are on the horizon.
“As the weather warms up, exterior work like paving and masonry will become more visible. And by mid-year, the interior build-out will progress to a point where the transformation becomes palpable.”
Safety Remains a Top Priority
Hard hats, safety glasses, high-visibility clothing, and work boots are mandatory on the construction site. Foster enforces a regular third-party safety audit to ensure all protocols are being followed, and the site has maintained a perfect record so far.
“For the general public, I want to remind everyone it is particularly important to respect construction barriers and caution tape. We have those barriers in place for everyone’s safety.”
Project Completion
The CCMH project is on-time and on-budget with a scheduled completion by the end of 2026. While that may seem distant, the progress made thus far is substantial. Visit ccmhia.com/buildingproject/ for regular updates and photos of the construction progress. The future of CCMH is exciting and will lead to enhanced care thanks to this vital expansion.
