Construction Update

Welcoming You At A New Entrance !!   Beginning April 12th, 2010, all hospital services should be accessed by the new main entrance on Elm Street.       Please click here for a construction update of changes going into effect in April 2010.

In July of 2008, Governor John Lynch, and his wife Dr. Susan Lynch, joined VRH Trustees, staff and community members to break ground on the $22.5 million, 54,000 square foot construction and renovation project, deemed the largest in the hospital's 115 year history.

While the total number of beds will remain at 25, renovations will significantly increase the number of private rooms with bathrooms, as requested by our patients. The conversion to all private rooms increases confidentiality, decreases the risks of disease transmission and medical errors, and allows family members to be part of the healing process. Patients and relatives will also see more family-centered amenities available, such as a family lounge and kitchen facility.

The Emergency Department will increase its size by 50% and relocate in proximity to critical services such as radiology, laboratory and surgery. Patients and visitors will find one registration and admitting area within the one main entrance more accommodating and less confusing. When seeking services from the ED, patients will be cared for in all private rooms including two triage rooms, six standard treatment rooms, a pediatric treatment room, two trauma rooms, two observation rooms and a psychiatric support room. The ED will have a decontamination facility to respond to a chemical or biological contamination.

The Kane Center, presently located across the street from the hospital, will utilize increased space within the hospital to provide greater efficiency for oncology, infusion and phlebotomy services.

Renovations of the existing space will provide for an expanded occupational health department, expanded rehabilitation gym, and recovery rooms, as well as same day surgery, a service with considerable potential to serve local residents.

Much of the equipment in the central plant of the hospital is close to 50 years old. Age and capacity are affecting the boilers, piping, water heaters, and hot water storage tanks. Anticipated construction will bring improved security, storage and accessibility for patients and staff.

And finally, the exterior of the hospital will undergo a number of changes with the addition of a new ambulance entrance, a helipad location and additional accessible parking for patients and visitors.

It's an ambitious plan in a short amount of time. We again have raised the bar and set a proclamation, with medical excellence, outstanding patient satisfaction, community confidence, staff commitment and past performance providing the fuel for our journey.

View photos of our progress!