Several construction projects at Loma Linda University Health are soon finishing, and others are in the works. Here are some updates.
Business Center
The Business Center (home of the Councilors Student Pavilion and the Welcome Center) has been undergoing an exterior renovation since late October to make the south end of the building match the north. Work includes replacing windows, updating trim, rebuilding some of the sidewalks, and adding planters.
The project is scheduled for completion by the end of March.
Pipeline between LLU Power Plant and thermal-energy storage tank
Since August, workers have been constructing a new pipeline between the Power Plant and the thermal-energy storage tank. The new pipeline has a 30-inch diameter. This has involved opening trenches along Anderson Street and installing new chilled water pipes between the two facilities.
The first two phases of this have been closed, and the third section that remains open by the Power Plant and School of Dentistry should be completed by the middle of February.
This project will allow chilled water generated at night at the Chiller Plant to be stored in the thermal-energy storage tank and circulated during the day to help cool campus buildings. The next phase is to expand the chiller system for cooling water. Administration is currently reviewing construction plans for that.
Water wells
Loma Linda University Health has been increasing self-reliance by creating new water wells, the fourth of which has been drilled and is awaiting its custom-made pipe and other equipment. Located near the San Timoteo wash and Anderson Street, the new well should be bringing up water by the end of March.
LLU Medical Center outpatient pharmacy
The outpatient pharmacy at Loma Linda University Medical Center is being relocated to the lobby. Construction at the new location is briefly on hold for seismic retrofitting in the lobby, but the pharmacy is expected to be completed in mid 2015.
LLU Medical Center lobby seismic retrofit
The current phase of retrofitting the lobby to increase its earthquake capacity began in November 2014. Construction crews are working as quickly as they can while also trying to minimize noise disturbance. The work in the lobby should finish in early summer, with work continuing on the second floor through midsummer.
New patient parking garage
In March, work will begin on a new patient parking garage in preparation for building the new hospital. This new garage will be located at the corner of Barton Road and Campus Street. Completion is scheduled for March of 2016. The new hospital, slated to open in 2020, will be located in the current patient parking lot east of the existing Medical Center and Children’s Hospital.