Vertical hospital expansions require building directly above active medical facilities that cannot close or move patients, according to a September 11 report from Layton Construction. This specialized construction method addresses the challenges of an aging population and increasing land scarcity by allowing healthcare systems to build upward on existing footprints.
Layton Construction project manager Mitchell Koch described the process as having incredibly high stakes, noting that the work must be performed without impacting patient care. Koch's experience includes working on the Fort Walton-Destin Hospital in Florida, where he managed a vertical expansion that was completed in 2023. During that project, Layton added two floors to an existing facility after receiving authorization from HCA Florida to expand beyond the original four-story ICU tower design.
The construction process involves demolishing parts of a building's exterior envelope while maintaining the security and integrity of the remaining structure. Layton Senior Superintendent John Lopez noted that these projects require early involvement with architects and design consultants to manage logistical planning and unforeseen structural issues. For example, during a preliminary inspection, a team discovered a roof leaning two inches off from its base, allowing for corrections before additional floors were added.
Safety protocols are critical to prevent healthcare-associated infections, as construction can disrupt airflow and release contaminants. Teams utilize Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) to mitigate hazards. At West Marion Community Hospital in Ocala, Layton managed a two-year expansion involving a two-story vertical addition and two horizontal tie-ins without interrupting surgeries or patient services. This project required preparing for significant weather events, including hurricanes Milton and Helene.
As healthcare systems anticipate future growth, many are now designing buildings with longevity in mind by installing extended column stubs. This allows for future vertical additions without the need for roof demolition. Layton Construction, headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, continues to expand its presence in Florida, with plans to open a new office in Tampa this fall.
