New hospital nearing completion

The new Wrangell Medical Center is nearing completion, according to a press release from SEARHC. Several crews are on-site working on siding, concrete, drywall, and other aspects of the construction project. According to the press release, the facility is 80 percent complete.

Installation of exterior siding is nearly complete, with only the courtyard walls and south-facing side of the facility left. The majority of plumbing has been completed, as well. Electric crews are currently installing security systems and are preparing to put in the building transformer. Drywall crews are nearly complete with their work, as well.

"Hearing so many projects within the new construction being completed, or nearing completion, is some welcomed news in 2020," said SEARHC Vice President and WMC Hospital Administrator Leatha Merculieff in the press release. "WMC staff is eager and excited to begin treating patients and caring for residents in what will be the nicest healthcare facility in the region."

According to the press release, flooring installation will begin this week, and laundry and kitchen equipment will start to be installed. Permanent site power will be tested around mid-October. The last phase of clinic renovations, attached to the new hospital, are scheduled for early November. The move-in date for the new medical center is anticipated for December, with full project completion in early 2021.