A potential $6 million renovation and expansion is planned for UPMC Braddock Community Hospital.
The project, which includes building a public and employee entrance to the hospital off Braddock Avenue, might be paid for with $3 million from the state's Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program and $3 million from private investments, said Jim Spindler, the hospital's director of marketing and public relations.
The Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County recently gave its approval to seek the state grant, requested by hospital President Cynthia Dorundo.
"At this time, entrance off Braddock Avenue is provided only for the staff and physicians," Spindler said.
He said the expansion would create short-term construction jobs and additional hospital employment, but had no estimate of the number of jobs.
Other improvements include moving the MRI unit from a portable trailer on the hospital grounds to a permanent site within the hospital; increasing the number of beds; and expanding parking areas for both visitors and staff.
The hospital also plans to improve exterior lighting and security.
Although not part of the hospital expansion, a plan was developed by the Falbo-Pennrose Group to build a senior citizen facility on Braddock Avenue near the hospital.
"We plan to submit a request to the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency in December to fund Braddock Housing, a 50-unit senior citizen housing development near the hospital," said Ralph Falbo of Ralph A. Falbo Inc.
