New Hospital a Green Jewel

The Kiowa County Memorial Hospital (KCMH) held its grand opening last Friday, March 12, and there was a lot to celebrate. The hospital had been operating out of MASH tents and trailers since shortly after the tornado, and staff pitched in to ensure continuity of care for area residents. For the community to now be home to such a beautiful model of energy-efficiency is yet another feather in its cap. KCMH is pursuing LEED Platinum certification for their 15-bed unit. Once this is attained, the facility will be the first critical access hospital in the country with this designation.

The grand opening attracted hundreds of people who gathered to celebrate the major achievement that is the new hospital. Hospital Administrator Mary Sweet credited her board for their vision and dedication to getting the project done right. Fourteen speakers took their turns at the podium to acknowledge the partnerships, give thanks, and express optimism about Greensburg's future. Many who spoke were very emotional about the history of the hospital and the importance of this project to the community.

Kansas Governor Mark Parkinson and his wife, Stacy, were on hand, as were State Treasurer (and Greensburg resident) Dennis McKinney, U.S. Congressman Jerry Moran, and U.S. Senator Sam Brownback. Other speakers included representatives from funding agencies and those involved with the design and construction of KCMH. Each offered a unique perspective and it was soon made evident to the audience that this project is a result of a complex and dedicated web of partners.

Not only are there are many sustainable features to tout, but the design itself exudes tranquility and healing, indoors and out. Readers interested in learning details about the on-site wind turbine, water conservation techniques, energy-efficient heating and cooling system, natural daylighting features and the like are invited to visit the Sustainable Building Database on this website. The database was set up by, and is maintained in conjunction with, staff at the National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL), which is a program of the U.S. Department of Energy. NREL was a key player in the comeback of the hospital, providing invaluable consulting assistance on its myriad energy-efficiency features. The database is also where you will find many photos of the building, inside and out, that give a sense of its beauty.

We congratulate all who brought their vision and commitment to this project. 

photo credits: Joah Bussert, left, and Catherine Hart, right

Comments

[shanti]

sorry to miss the grand opening- yet another milestone! Congrats Greensubrg.