A groundbreaking was held today in Gothenburg for the start of construction of the new patient wing and hospital expansion of the Gothenburg Memorial Hospital. Gothenburg Memorial Hospital, Inc. received a $26.5 million direct loan from USDA Rural Development and $3 million in loans through Gothenburg State Bank and First State Bank that are backed by a USDA Rural Development guarantee.
The hospital will undergo a major expansion and renovation to the current facility. The hospital size will increase from 63,000 square feet to 97,000 square feet, with almost 40 percent of the existing square footage to be demolished. Improvements include a prominent main entry on the south side of the building, new patient wing and central nurses’ station, IV therapy, inpatient pharmacy, chemotherapy care, wellness center and a new dietary center. Expansion of the imaging department will include new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) equipment.
“GMH is a growing healthcare system in Gothenburg, driving jobs and providing critical services to our region,” said President of the Board of Directors, Monty Bowman, Gothenburg Memorial Hospital. “We believe this expansion will allow GMH to take a more proactive approach and encourage the community to come to us for health, not just when they are ill, but for how to live a healthy lifestyle.”
“USDA is pleased to participate in this project. The hospital will construct improvements that will help to meet the changing medical needs of those assisted by Gothenburg Memorial Hospital,” said Community Programs Director Denise Meeks, USDA Rural Development.
For more information visit www.rd.usda.gov/ne. You can also contact Bert Mues at 308-237-3118 or Bert.Mues@ne.usda.gov.
President Obama’s plan for rural America has brought about historic investment and resulted in stronger rural communities. Under the President’s leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have empowered rural America to continue leading the way – strengthening America’s economy, small towns and rural communities. USDA’s investments in rural communities support the rural way of life that stands as the backbone of our American values.