http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wium/local-wium-890537.mp3
Keosauqua, IA – Van Buren County Hospital will use a nearly $4-million loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to expand its complex in Keosauqua.
Administrator Lisa Schnedler says the hospital has been planning for a new, larger kitchen and dining room area for about ten years. She says the loan will finally allow the project to move forward.
"It's going to really make the public come here more," says Schnedler, "in terms of having meals and visiting patients."
Schnedler says the project also calls for existing clinical space to be remodeled to improve patient flow and for a water-therapy resistance pool to be added. She says the expansion and renovation will tie into the construction of Van Buren County Hospital's new child care center.
Schnedler says the new facility will house Head Start, preschool, WIC, child care, and parenting classes.
Both projects are currently in the design stage. Additional fundraising could be required.
Schnedler says the goal is to go out for bid on both projects in late May or early June. She says that could save the county money.