RESTORE AMBULANCE BAY

Jul 30

Purpose

Renovation and reconstruction of the ambulance bay and front entrance vestibule at the Edward J. Hines Jr. VA Hospital in Chicago, IL. The project replaced a deficient 10-year-old design with a durable, high-functioning, and modern medical access point built to serve veterans for decades. As the prime contractor on the design-build effort, Richard demolished the outdated temporary ambulance bay and constructed a new steel vestibule with masonry stone, seamlessly integrating it into the hospital’s existing infrastructure. The upgraded facility improved patient and staff safety, ADA accessibility, and environmental sustainability through modernized site utilities, mechanical systems, and architectural finishes.

Project Challenges

Design Deficiency: The existing ambulance bay design was fundamentally flawed, requiring a complete redesign and reconstruction rather than a renovation. Richard transitioned the project from design-bid-build to design-build, performing 100% of design services in-house to accelerate delivery.

Complex Site Conditions: Four major contract modifications were required due to differing site conditions and client-driven changes, including foundation redesign, relocation of underground utilities, and added concrete surfacing requirements.

Operational Continuity: Construction occurred at the hospital’s primary ambulance entrance while maintaining full emergency access and daily operations. Careful phasing, weekend work, and close coordination with medical staff ensured uninterrupted emergency response capabilities.

Project Outcome

Accelerated Delivery: The project was completed two months early through strategic off-hour and weekend work that minimized disruption to hospital operations.

Enhanced Safety and Accessibility: The new ambulance bay and vestibule dramatically improved patient and staff safety, accessibility, and emergency flow, meeting modern design and ADA standards.

Design-Build Integration: Delivering all design services in-house allowed for seamless coordination between design intent and construction execution, maintaining quality and efficiency throughout delivery.