Salem Township Hospital CEO James Timpe says the hospital is ahead of schedule on beginning demolition work that will proceed construction of an expanded emergency room and operating room. He told the hospital board on Wednesday afternoon that Shores Builders are in the final stages of preparation for the demolition.
“Demolition is coming soon,” Timpe said. “I would expect that to be in March, so we need some of the weather to abate a little bit. Demolition should start very soon, and then this summer we should be able to do our groundbreaking to kick off the big project.
Opening of the new facilities is anticipated before the end of 2027. The improvement project could cost as much as $17 million.
Timpe also announced there are other improvements underway at the hospital.
“We started with the medical surgical inpatient unit, and that will extend down the hallway towards the RHC,” Timpe said. “All of that carpet is coming out. Nowadays you have a solid surface, more cleanable floors rather than carpet in clinical areas.”
Timpe announced the company currently running the radiology department has given notice they want to end the contract in August due to manpower issues. He is talking to several companies interested in providing the serve in the future.