LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Construction is still ongoing at the Norton West Louisville Hospital and they aren't expecting their first patient until November.
On Friday, WHAS11 got an inside look at the progress. Although the rooms were empty and flooring is still being laid down, the building is covered in finished walls, windows and already has power running through it.
This is the first time in 150 years a hospital will be located west of 9th Street in the city. The new location will offer general surgery, pediatric primary care, orthopedics, and many other services.
"We started doing surveys and asking people what they wanted this to look like well over two years ago," said Corenza Townsend, the chief administrative officer for the hospital. "Last year we went out and updated folks on what that will look like."
Norton Healthcare continues to partner with several west Louisville businesses to complete this project.
"We've had a lot of opportunity with a lot of other local vendors, supplies and subcontractors that get to be a part of history on this side of town," said Josh Moulton with Messer Construction Company. "So it's really awesome. Springfield Plumbing is one, Joash Construction is another... I could go on. We've had so many that have been a partner in this project that has been critical."
The exterior of the hospital is currently surrounded by heavy machinery and unfinished panels but it's set to transform into a completed project by November.
"The ways that we can build trust and relationships that healthcare systems haven't been able to in the past really is what this facility is all about," said Russell Cox, the president & CEO of Norton Healthcare. "So we're very, very committed to doing this the right way."
Flooring continues to be placed throughout the hospital. Tour guides also showcased an empty open space outside on the second floor where they will house plants and to create a nature space for patients.
"This is one of the three green roofs in this building," Moulton said. "So you'll have one here in the admin area and you have the two closer to the patient care area."
Once this hospital is completed in November, Cox said it could be used as a model for other hospitals they are considering constructing outside of Metro Louisville.
"For us here in Louisville, for us in the state of Kentucky and in the region, that includes southern Indiana and so many others it would make sense if we look at this facility and say, 'Does this work in other parts of the community and how do we not focus on 150 bed towers that we are used to in healthcare systems?'," Cox said. "We know for certain that outcome improves when care is given closer to home."
As of right now the hospital is currently vetting applications for the 300 jobs this project will bring. Officials said there is still time to apply if you're interested. If you're wanting to apply click here.
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