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News from Lower Umpqua Hospital

Repairs Underway
by Delaine Humphreys, Family Resource Center

Lower Umpqua Hospital is beginning a 4 to 6 month project designed to repair water damage resulting from problems associated with the remodel that was done in 1997. According to a spokesperson from Raymond J. Bartel Architect and Planner of Oregon City who has been hired by Lower Umpqua Hospital's attorneys, "What is planned is a repair of the failure of the general building envelope. The work will include the removal of the existing outside stucco and the replacement of another stucco product, the removal and replacement of affected windows and doors, the replacement of damaged framing, and the correction of exterior grades as needed." The work will be done by regional contractor S. D. Deacon.

Scaffolding is being erected and a weather-protective bubble will be installed to cover the hospital while work is being done. It's going to look strange, but rest assured that getting into and out of the hospital will not be a problem. For your safety and comfort, it is suggested that patients and visitors use the upper parking lot and the front entrance. If you have an appointment with Physical Therapy, Respiratory Therapy, or the orthopedic doctors, use either set of elevators or the stairs by Admitting to get downstairs. The stairwell above the Specialists Clinic will soon be closed. Downstairs, there will be tunnels for pedestrians stationed at the doorways for easy exiting if need be.

It is estimated that the weather protective tenting will be up about 4 months and construction will continue for a couple months after the tenting is removed. The tenting is necessary to provide weather protection to the building as the work is being done. Removing the existing stucco will open parts of the building not intended for exposure to the elements. Protocols are also in place to protect the general public during this time.

The hospital staff is deeply sorry for any inconvenience that patients, their family members and friends might experience while this extremely critical repair work is being done. If you have any questions about this project, please contact Ernie Fegles, Plant Manager or Noel Aasen, Administrator at 271-2171.

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