Hospital’s expansion project under way

A $4.2 million medical imaging expansion at Culpeper Regional Hospital on 501 Sunset Lane began last month as part of the health facility's effort to create a permanent space for the MRI testing area.

Nielsen Builders Inc. of Harrisonburg was awarded the $1.6 million contract to build a more spacious and stable setting for the MRI unit by October.

The unit currently is housed in a cramped temporary trailer.
The 5,500-square-foot addition will be built along Laurel Drive, on the south side of the 70-bed hospital, according to the site plan records.

Renovation plans include a full basement and support structure for multiple factory-built modular units to house the state-of-the-art equipment.

A drive-up canopy, associated site work and an exterior elevator also are included in the project, according to Nielsen.

The soft cost fees and MRI equipment push the project's price tag to $4.2 million. Soft costs are the non-brick-and-mortar expenses, including architect fees, engineering reports, permits and water and sewer hookups.

The medical imaging expansion isn't the only area of the hospital receiving a facelift this year.

Nielsen also will conduct the $1 million operating room renovation slated for completion in July.

This project includes upgrading the existing operating-room suite, as well as adding enhanced mechanical and electrical systems and new interior finishes.

Last October, Nielsen completed the hospital's $11-million Powell Wellness Center.

That 38,000-square-foot facility - across from the Meadowbrook Shopping Center at the intersection of Golf Drive and Bus. 29 - serves two purposes. It's a rehabilitative center and fitness facility.

Rhonda Simmons can be reached at 825-0771 ext. 125 or .