DYER—Saint Margaret Mercy pleased to announce that hospital employees and visitors may now park in the area just North of the Patient Accounts building, which is on the west end of hospital property.

Excavation has begun for the Diagnostic Center, which will be located on the south side of the hospital. By the end of January, the drive between the Chapel and the area where Mercy Hall used to be will be closed. While the parking area next to it will be reduced in size, it will remain open for Cardio Rehab patients.

Steel construction for the two additional surgery floors has reached its highest point. The very highest section, near the Emergency entrance, is the elevator shaft that leads to the heliport. The sixth and seventh floors are now being poured with a special mix of concrete that sets up faster and acquires strength sooner. Specially designed pumps deliver the heavy mixture from the truck to the floors. Walls of plastic sheeting protect the newly poured concrete from the winter weather; heating blankets spread across the surface of the finished concrete offer additional protection. The effect on hospital operations has been minimal; patients, visitors and employees are contributing to smooth operation with their patience and understanding.

More construction information is available on our Construction Chronicles page.