BJC Institute of Health Construction Update

Media Contact:

Kelly Pahl

314-747-3820

kpahl@bjc.org

August 27, 2008, ST. LOUIS – After working through nearly a year of sun, snow, rain, and more rain, iron workers are about three months from “topping out” 8,210 tons of steel on the BJC Institute of Health at Washington University.

Groundbreaking was Oct. 29, 2007. Crews are working to complete the steel framework on the 11-story, 700,000 square foot building by the end of this year. Work will then shift outward as they begin enclosing the building in metal and stone.

Crews also are finishing a road which will lead to the building’s future loading docks. The road will run under Euclid Avenue, alongside the Metrolink tracks, and connect with Taylor Avenue.

The BJC Institute of Health, scheduled to open in December 2009, will be the hub for BioMed 21, Washington University’s initiative to speed research developments into new treatments. Barnes-Jewish Hospital also will have five floors of flexible shell space currently programmed for support services. Initial plans include a new cafeteria, food and nutrition offices, clinical laboratories and pharmacy. This space is key to master facility planning as the hospital explores opportunities to create more space for inpatient beds.

The BJC Institute of Health is striving for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, recognizing green buildings for energy conservation and environmental performance. A relaxing and attractive plaza will front the building.  

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