Chandler Regional Kicks Off Latest Addition

Instead of a traditional groundbreaking ceremony, guests were invited to sign a steel beam that will later be used as part of the tower's infrastructure, making them a permanent part of this important hospital milestone. The celebration was attended by community leaders in business and government, along with philanthropic supporters, and key leadership from Dignity Health and Kitchell, who is building the tower. Among the attendees were Chandler Mayor Jay Tibshraeny; several members of the Chandler city council; Senator John McComish; Rep. Jeff Dial; Rep. JD Mesnard; Gilbert council members Jenn Daniels and Ben Cooper; Gila River Indian Community leaders.

"This is an exciting time for Chandler," said Tim Bricker, president and CEO of Chandler Regional and Mercy Gilbert Medical Centers. "Fifty years ago we were a small community hospital, and today marks Chandler Regional's latest expansion to continue to bring advanced technologies and services to our neighbors. We know it will have a magnetic affect on the community by retaining existing physicians and attracting new practices, medical service vendors and other businesses to the area."

The five-story addition will expand emergency services and the hospital's medical-surgical unit, and will add 32 intensive care rooms, and six operating suites. The $125 million project is scheduled to open in late 2014 and is expected to employ more than 1,000 workers during the construction phase.

"Many things go into a great community, and leading-edge medical care is among those critical factors for success," said Mayor Jay Tibshraeny. "I look forward to our continued partnership with Chandler Regional, and to witnessing their continued progress."