Hospital tops off new structure

By Tony Cagala

Aug 17, 2012 • 166 views • 0 comments

The steel beam that will finish the support structure of the new Critical Care Building is set into place. Photo by Tony Cagala

ENCINITAS — Since the first beam went into the ground three weeks ago, Scripps’ new Critical Care building has been taking shape.

On Friday project donors, community leaders, government officials and hospital staff all signed one of the steel structural beams for the building.

People signing the beam wrote messages as, “Hard work pays off,” and “The future is now,” celebrating the building’s construction, which is the first patient care facility built at Scripps Encinitas in 20 years.

The two-story facility, which consists of $87 million out of the $94 million total cost for the complete expansion, is expected to be open early summer 2014.

: Dr. Eric Lovell signs his name and tapes photos of “Team E.R.” for members of the Scripps emergency room staff that couldn’t make the event. Photo by Tony Cagala

: Lisa Valentino, an employee of Scripps, signs the beam with “The future is now.” Photo by Tony Cagala

: Former patient Miranda Klassen signs the beam, with a “Thank you” to Scripps, crediting the hospital for saving her and her son’s lives. Photo by Tony Cagala

: Perry Herst sign the steel beam that will help finish constructing the support for the new Critical Care Building in Encinitas. Photo by Tony Cagala

: Mark Hirsch of Volvo Rentals (foreground) signs the beam with other construction and engineering crews working on the $94 million project. Photo by Tony Cagala

: From left, Carl Etter, chief executive, Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas, Encinitas councilman Jim Bond, Encinitas councilwoman Kristin Gaspar, Solana Beach Deputy Mayor Dave Roberts and Chris Van Gorder, chief executive officer of Scripps prepare for the steel beam to be raised into place. Photo by Tony Cagala