JE Dunn Construction Co. completed an extensive renovation and addition project for Christus Jasper Memorial Hospital in January. The $6-million project included construction of a new 12,000-sq-ft emergency department and renovation of the existing emergency department.

This is the only operating hospital within 60 miles, so continuation of services was paramount during construction. A team mentality and open communication were critical for the project's success, along with such strategies as just-in-time delivery to account for the lack of storage and laydown areas. The logistics of performing all the construction work proved to be a challenge as well. The project required that the existing emergency room entrance, ambulance drop-off and the main hospital entrance be relocated to the opposite side of the facility. Before construction, the contractor collaborated with the hospital administration to publicize the changes among the community, doctors, staff and ambulance companies that serve the area.

Another logistics issue was the Life Flight helipad, which was only 20 ft away from the new building. The project team remained in constant communication with in-bound helicopters to ensure there were no obstacles to the Life Flight operation and transfer of patients.

The project was completed under budget, with a savings of $121,069 returned to the owner.

Key Players

Owner Jasper Hospital District, Jasper, Texas

General Contractor JE Dunn Construction Co., Houston

Lead Design Curry Boudreaux Architects, Houston