ROME – Renovations of Rome Memorial Hospital’s front entrance are expected to begin mid-to-late August to enhance accessibility for patients and visitors, announced Interim Chief Executive Officer Darlene A. Burns.

Both side walkways will be redesigned with ramps for handicapped accessibility. The existing brick pillars and canopy will be enclosed in glass with entranceways featuring doors that open automatically. The walkways will be heated for enhanced safety during the winter.

"The renovation project answers concerns expressed by patients on our satisfaction survey," Mrs. Burns said. "Because of our staff, our overall patient satisfaction scores are excellent at 96%; however, the issue that keeps resurfacing is the lack of handicapped accessibility and handicapped parking at the front entrance."

The hospital’s Emergency Department and Bartlett Wing entrances are handicapped accessible. However, stairs in the foyer of the front entrance pose a problem for people in wheelchairs, parents with strollers, and others who find climbing stairs difficult.

"The renovation project will clear the way for easier access to the hospital via the front lobby," Mrs. Burns said. "We recognize that we have an aging population, these enhancements will make it easier for our elderly patients and visitors."

The Rome Memorial Hospital Foundation secured a $20,000 grant from the Stevens Kingsley Foundation to help underwrite the cost of the project, which is expected to be completed within three months.

The renovations will affect traffic flow, parking, and lobby use. During construction, the parking spots in the front circle of the hospital will be blocked off. Patients and visitors are advised to use the Bartlett Wing entrance on the Black River Boulevard side of the hospital for their safety. Towards the end of the project, the main lobby will be closed for a short time while flooring and furniture upholstery are replaced.