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

Seeking Standards for Microbial Loads in Healthcare Facilities

Why is there no binding standard for the acceptable microbial load on surfaces or in the air in hospitals?


UCR Health Unveils Plans for Major Expansion

The vision for the site will include an outpatient diagnostic center and possible future expansion.


High-Performance Windows Support Safety at UW Medicine's New Behavioral Health Center

Case study: Engineered for strength, quiet and daylight, the chosen windows help create a safe, calming and energy-efficient environment for patients and providers.


Central Maine Healthcare Dealing with IT System Outage

The organization identified unusual activity within their computer software, prompting them to secure and shut off all IT systems.


Kaiser Permanente Opens Newly Expanded Everett Medical Center

The facility offers primary care and pediatric care and has specialty care departments.


 
 


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.