L-R: TRENTON LEBLANC, GENERAL SUPERINTENDENT AT SKANSKA USA; TONY PALERMO, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT, CITY OF FORT MYERS; AND ERIC ANDERSON, SYSTEM DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC CAPITAL CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS.
The Community Relations Committee had the Lee Memorial Strategic Capital Projects team visit HP on October 28, 2024. 72 HP residents listened while the team shared new renderings, and provided construction updates, on the new hospital being built on Challenger Boulevard. With an estimated completion date set for March 2028, this project marks a significant advancement in Lee Health’s commitment to enhancing healthcare services in our community.
The proposed new hospital will feature a streamlined design, encompassing 168 beds within a modern 560,000 square foot facility. In contrast to the Gulf Coast Hospital, which houses 624 beds across 950,000 square feet, this new structure aims to provide a more efficient and focused patient experience. The design incorporates a “one-stop shop” concept, allowing patients to undergo surgery, recover, and even accommodate family members during rehabilitation—all within the same campus.
Members of the team shared drone footage of the construction area, highlighting the picturesque lake which will serve as a central feature of the facility, as well as the substantial groundwork laid to ensure effective drainage and flood management. In addition to the hospital itself, the planned campus will include medical offices, an emergency facility, and a discharge area. These elements aim to create a seamless transition for patients throughout their healthcare journey, reinforcing their dedication to providing comprehensive care. The design emphasizes the importance of green space, with ample areas surrounding the lakes for patients and visitors to enjoy. This thoughtful integration of nature into the healthcare environment not only enhances aesthetics, but also promotes well-being and healing.
As construction progresses, Lee Health remains committed to keeping our community informed about the developments of this transformative project. The new hospital is poised to elevate the standard of care in our region, ensuring that our community has access to state-of-the-art medical facilities and services.
The team then answered many questions raised by those in attendance.
