University Hospital expansion on-schedule

200 days left until patients admitted

SAN ANTONIO – University Hospital officials are counting the days until the grand opening of a new 10-story, million-square-foot tower on April 14, 2014.

Construction on the new tower began in January 2011 and crews now have exactly 200 days left until patients are admitted

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"This is a state-of-the-art facility like no other in San Antonio or South Texas. This will change the face of healthcare and the level of healthcare that's provided in our community," said University Health System Senior Vice President Mark Webb.

The expansion includes two floors of surgical suites with 35 total operating rooms.

It will also add 420 new patient rooms, bringing the hospital up to a total of more than 700 patient beds.

Some rooms will have private courtyards and the capability to be converted to suites.

There will also be three rooftop gardens available for patients, visitors and staff.

The new garage will offer 3,300 spaces.

The construction is part of a $899.4 million capital improvement program.

Officials say the expansion was much-needed. 

When the emergency center was built 25 years ago, it was meant to handle 35,000 patients a year. It now sees about 70,000 patients annually.

"Really, it's about demand and being able to serve the needs of the community," said Webb.

On Jan. 30, 2014, crews will begin moving in equipment and furniture and start stocking supply rooms.

Then, staff will start training with new technology and the new layout.

"During that time-frame, there will be a lot of people and a lot of movement and activity in the building getting it ready, because come April 14, there is no margin for error," said Webb.

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