Slowly, but certainly, approaching the completion of two major construction and renovation projects, Jennie Stuart Health Foundation Executive Director Tracey Clark paid a visit to Cadiz Thursday afternoon for the Trigg Chamber “Lunch & Learn” series — providing critical updates from the campus.
At the forefront: a $32 million expenditure for the complete renovation and expansion of the hospital’s busy emergency department, and an overhaul of the long-standing, respected E.C. Green Cancer Center.
Clark said the emergency department will “double in size,” while the oncology wing will expand from 9,000 square feet, to 34,000 square feet.
Created in 1988 behind ample family philanthropy, Clark noted the top priorities for the E.C. Green area involve top care, state-of-the-art equipment, and the ability to meet patient/family emotional and social needs during their most vulnerable times.
So, while its visitors typically come in through High or 17th streets, Clark added that a new type of customer service will help ease the medical transition.
Furthermore, deep inside this renovation comes more patient space, and a strong chance for more staff.
As for the foundation, it is a separate 501 (c)(3) arm of JSH. Clark took the job head on following its 2018-19 inception, and through an ongoing, deeply-rooted capital campaign comes the ability to address certain touches and nuances to these projects.
At this moment, this includes — but isn’t limited to — extra comforts in the new cancer center waiting room, upgraded patient chairs and more.
As of September, the Foundation had met 70% of a $1.5 million goal. Both construction projects are expected to be complete in the first half of 2024.
