THE ASK
Priding itself on delivering exceptional patient care, Strong Memorial Hospital sees more than 115,000 visitors per year within its emergency department alone. With this volume, the emergency department was consistently experiencing overcrowding, and once COVID-19 hit, physical distancing requirements further exacerbated the issue, with double rooms becoming single rooms. A temporary event tent was erected in the hospital parking lot for immediate relief, but, with no end to the pandemic in sight at the time, and a harsh winter looming, a permanent solution was required.
URMC turned to Sprung for a rapidly built, permanent surge space with a full interior fit-out that could withstand the elements.
HOW SPRUNG DELIVERED
Amid challenges like limited space, a large-grade change and working alongside an active emergency department, the Sprung team completed the structure installation and interior fit-out in just 30 days. The complete construction cycle was eight weeks long — four weeks for site preparation and four weeks for installation and fit-out.
Sprung collaborated with URMC alliance partner Le Chase for construction management, and consulted with an existing client, Dan Fuller from Bristol Mountain, on anchorage options.
The UR Strong Memorial Hospital Surge Tent project won the Community Impact Award at the 2021 American Institute of Architecture (AIA) Design Awards.
THE SPECS
- 40’ wide x 80’ long
- Two ramps with separate entrances for EMS and access to the main hospital
- Heating and cooling systems, automatic doors, and power and data sources for optimal patient care
- 28 patient bays, a nurse work area and support spaces
- Hospital-grade materials adhering to infection control guidelines
