Wellstar Kennestone Hospital expansion prompts access changes

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Kennestone Hospital access changes
For a larger view click here. Map: Wellstar Health System

A construction and expansion project is getting underway at Wellstar Kennestone Hospital, and a number of traffic and access changes have been put in place, effective today.

Wellstar sent out a news release Monday afternoon noting that the Church Street access to the hospital will be closed.

Also, the covered walkway from the Blue parking deck to the main entrance, also will be closed while the construction work continues.

Patients and visitors to the labor and delivery entrance will now use Kennestone Hospital Boulevard, off Tower Road, and follow the signs to the Blue parking deck.

Here’s more from Wellstar about what’s going to be different while the expansion is ongoing:

  • The main lobby entrance will remain open, as will Kennestone Hospital Boulevard, but the covered walkway from the Blue Parking Deck will not be accessible.

  • Visitors who park in the Blue Parking Deck can use the other sidewalk into the lobby or enter the hospital through the Purple Tower.

  • The new Labor & Delivery entrance location is covered, with ample space for curbside drop-off. The area will be open 24 hours a day and fully staffed to welcome and direct patients to their destination.

  • Signs will be posted on the construction barricades, in the parking deck, and in the hospital corridors to guide visitors to their desired location.

  • Traffic directors will be stationed outside the hospital lobby to help visitors navigate the changes.

The $263 million project includes a new patient tower that would replace the Baird Tower, which was built in 1964.

The new seven-story building would house expanded services for women and children and include more campus amenities and private rooms.

The project would be completed by mid-2025, if the Georgia Department of Community Health approves. A decision deadline is expected by Dec. 13.

Last summer, a new $126 million emergency department opened at Kennestone, and that includes a Level II trauma center.

 

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