“Projects like this move our hospital forward and fulfill our mission to deliver world-class care right here in Jamestown,” said Brian Durniok, interim president, UPMC Chautauqua. “This $20 million project features an improved design, additional space, more privacy and modern amenities for patients and visitors.”

The new 42,000 square-foot expansion includes:

• Four labor and delivery suites and three triage rooms;
• 12 postpartum private rooms where patients will be able to heal;
• 10 inpatient adolescent mental health beds; and,
• 20 inpatient adult mental health beds.

The expansion project was made possible by a $26.4 million state grant, part of a $1.5 billion commitment made by the state in 2016 to assist health care providers fund capital improvements and further develop health systems.

Others who offered remarks at the ceremony included County Executive George Borrello; Betsy Wright, former UPMC Chautauqua president; Peter Stark, WCA Foundation board chair; and Steve Kilburn, UPMC Chautauqua board president.

Additionally, unveiled for the first time was a baby mural wall with more than 700 baby photos submitted by former patients. “Community is a very important part of what we do here. That is why we asked our friends, our patients, to help us share some thoughts and memories that we could feature in our new units,” said Durniok. In the mental health unit, an inspirational word art display includes about 100 submissions from the community.

“We’re grateful because expansion projects like this enable our medical staff to practice in a hospital with a very rich tradition of excellent local leadership and compassionate care that also is part of a nationally ranked academic medical center, strong hospital network and one of the largest provider-led integrated health care delivery and finance systems in the country,” said Durniok.

Tony Dolce, JHS student organization advisor, said, “The classes had a difficult decision to make this year, as there were numerous great organizations to support. But, with the ongoing epidemic of addiction and chemical dependency increasing, they saw the need to support this worthy cause and hopefully make a change for the future.”

JHS started its 38th year of battle over a month-long fundraising effort by the school, which culminates in a festive competition between all JHS classes in fun events. The event was open to the public.

A Fresh Start fund was started by local resident Kim Carlson in honor of her late son Alex Faulk and is dedicated to helping those affected by addiction and chemical dependency.

For more information about A Fresh Start Fund or the foundation call (716) 664-8423.