Seismic Shift: System Opts To Build New, Not Retrofit

Retrofitting existing facility would cost about as much as building new hospital

By Dan Hounsell


As hospitals nationwide begin to incorporate the lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic into hospital new construction and renovations, systems in one state also must incorporate seismic considerations into such projects.

Kaiser Permanente and Providence Southern California are partnering to bring a new hospital to the High Desert in 2026 in a venture that will mean the closure of the nearly 65-year-old Providence St. Mary Medical Center, according to the Victorville Daily Press. Providence officials say the new hospital, which is pending regulatory review and approval, will be located in Victorville and include about 260 beds. The estimated cost of the new hospital is $750 million.

California hospitals are bracing for new earthquake laws mandating that by 2030, hospitals must be able to remain in operation after a major earthquake. St. Mary Medical Center will close because it does not meet the new seismic requirements. Officials said retrofitting St. Mary would cost about the same as building a new hospital.



June 17, 2021


Topic Area: Construction


Recent Posts

CRAB Alert: The EVS Role in Preventing Infection

CRAB is a Gram-negative bacterium that causes bloodstream infections, ventilator-associated pneumonia, surgical wound infections and meningitis in hospitalized patients.


Why Hospital Waiting Rooms Aren't Going Away

Despite advances in technology, thoughtfully designed reception spaces continue to evolve.


Ground Broken on Mount Sinai Tisch Cancer Hospital

The hospital is aiming to open in 2030 on Mount Sinai’s Upper East Side campus.


Design, Compartmentation, Training: How Defend-in-Place Strategies Can Protect Patients

Effective defend-in-place strategies depend on compartmentation, fire-rated assemblies and ongoing staff training to protect patients who cannot quickly evacuate.


Milestone Marked with Topping Out Ceremony for BayCare Hospital Manatee

Construction remains on schedule, with crews continuing work on interior spaces, infrastructure and clinical areas throughout the facility.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.