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

Respecting EVS Workers: 19 Minutes Is Not Enough

The infection control problem is time, and it's up to facility managers, EVS directors and infection preventionists to address the problem.


Where are the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Hotspots in Healthcare?

First-year findings from Boston Medical Center show medical waste generates a disproportionate amount of healthcare emissions.


Caravel Autism Health Opens Clinic in Lake Zurich, Illinois

The clinic features colorful, sensory-friendly spaces where children work one-on-one with therapists.


The Future of Healthcare Facility Construction Projects

Brian Cowperthwaite highlights the invisible work that impacts everyone who walks through a healthcare facility.


Ground Broken on Jupiter Medical Center's Second Hospital

The 53,000-square-foot hospital will include 29 inpatient beds, four operating rooms, 24-hour emergency services, a diagnostic laboratory and imaging services.


 
 


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.