Dozens of people show up to see what news things the patient tower will have to offer.
Hospital CEO Russell Meyers said the project has been in the works since 2006. When everything is finished, the community will have something to enjoy.
Melissa Ruckman and her family was just a few of the dozens of people that showed up to tour the new facility.
"My mom is currently here at the other hospital, so we just wanted to come over and check things out," said Ruckman.
Greeters handed out maps to make tour goers stroll through the eight floors checking things out.
"Of course I like labor and delivery. I'm way pass that stage so I won't be doing that but I think the labor and delivery is gonna be an awesome part," said Ruckman.
There are 48 beds per floor, more space for visiting family, updated equipment to allow critical patients more range of motion, play rooms for the kids, specialized computer software that will allow staff to better keep track of patient's needs, medication distribution and more.
"This is so much nicer than what we have today," said Meyers. "You can't help but be favorably impressed and we're hearing that feedback from our community members."
Meyers said building the tower on the current hospital property was important so the community wouldn't have to travel somewhere else for medical attention.
"This is a replacement facility. We're taking old beds out of service and moving our existing staff and patients into the new facility," said Meyers.
Over time, Meyers said the old hospital will undergo a transformation by turning the existing space into areas that will serve a more practical use.
The morning of December 19, nearly 200 patients will be transported to the new facility.
Meyers said the staff is prepared. They've done multiple run through and plan to get everyone moved in within three hours.
