As the current St. Joseph Memorial Hospital facility prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary, its first major expansion in 20 years begins.

Work is underway on a $1.4 million renovation to the front entrance, including the registration area and waiting room. The 6 to 8 month project adds 1,200 square feet to existing space. An exterior building shell addition of 1,200 square feet will be constructed and completed at a later date as an expansion to the Emergency Department.

Hospital staff will lead patients and visitors to a temporary entrance on the north side of the building. Additional greeters and signage will be available to help guide patients to their destination within the building.

When the project is completed, a single entrance underneath a rain canopy will welcome patients and visitors to a renovated lobby with information desk and greeting station. The new waiting room will offer expanded seating, two handicapped accessible washrooms and more privacy for admissions.

Although there have been numerous internal renovations to the hospital, the new entrance is the first major construction project since an expansion of the emergency department, same-day surgery, and lab facility in 1992.

St. Joseph Memorial Hospital first opened in 1897 as St. Andrew’s Hospital and operated by the Franciscan Sisters for its first 58 years. In 1956, the Adorers of the Blood of Christ assumed operation of the hospital and, with the support of the community, built the present facility in 1960.

In 1995, St. Joseph Memorial Hospital joined the Southern Illinois Healthcare system when purchased from the ASC Health System.

Celebration plans for the 50th anniversary are on hold until renovation is complete.

“The community will be proud of the changes,” said Scott Seaborn, St. Joseph Memorial Hospital Administrator. “We ask their patience as we work to provide the best service possible.”