In November 2008, Washington Hospital Healthcare System began the first phase of several renovation projects that will take place at Washington Hospital over the next several years. The Consolidated Central Plant Project is the first building that will be funded, in part, by Measure FF, a $190 million bond measure approved by voters in November 2004.

The 36,000 square foot power plant will include a new central plant, laundry, utility tunnel and a new loading dock. On completion of the first phase of the Consolidated Central Plant Project, construction of the new Center for Joint Replacement will begin. Construction of the new central plant is critical in providing expanded utility service, which will allow for the eventual replacement of nearly all buildings on Washington Hospital’s campus.

Measure FF is a general obligation bond approved in 2004 that will help Washington Hospital make critically needed seismic safety upgrades as well as expand its emergency room, intensive care unit, cardiac care facilities and lab and radiology services. To ensure Measure FF funds will be used in accordance with community expectations, a voluntary Citizens Bond Oversight Committee has been appointed to oversee the disbursement of the Measure FF bond proceeds and will report annually on the expenditure of the funds.

The push to replace the hospital facilities is primarily driven by California’s requirement that all hospital meet stringent new seismic guidelines by 2030. Upgrades are needed not only to ensure the hospital is able to continue to provide care in the event of a disaster, such as an earthquake, but also as a result of the growing population throughout the District, which now numbers more than 320,000.