Gundersen St. Joseph's new hospital project continues to advance

As previously reported, two properties owned by Gundersen St. Joseph's, residing to the immediate east of the current hospital, have seen preparation work over recent weeks including soil borings and the removal of trees. Attention now turns to the two houses and accompanying structures.

The properties have recently undergone inspection for lead and asbestos, a step which is necessary before any removal, deconstruction or salvage can take place.

"By law, we have to do the necessary testing for lead and asbestos, particularly taking into consideration the age of these buildings," says Danni Gearhart, CEO at Gundersen St. Joseph's Hospital and Clinics. "These tests were conducted and came back positive for asbestos in one house. There isn't a large amount, but it will need to be abated before we can proceed with the next steps."

Once asbestos abatement has been completed, Gundersen St. Joseph's will work with Barn Board and Beam, a salvage company from Readstown, Wis., to begin the process of deconstruction and salvage.

"The houses are not in a state in which they can be relocated," says Terry Sosinsky, facility operations director at Gundersen St. Joseph's; "however, we are working with a team who believes there are elements, such as floors and doors, which can be salvaged and reused."

Gundersen St. Joseph's is focusing heavily on ensuring the project is considerate to the environment by minimizing what goes to landfill. If community members are interested in elements of the properties, such as doors, trim and other materials, they can contact Barn Board and Beam directly at (608) 475-8066.

Sosinsky reports that asbestos has not been found in the garages so they will be removed and reused. "Apart from minimal asbestos we have no further environmental concerns."