Major Changes Begin Monday at Salem Hospital

Patients and visitors are encouraged to use the free shuttle service.

Big changes start this week, as Salem Hospital begins building new sky bridges.

(SALEM) - Big changes start this week, as Salem Hospital begins building new sky bridges.

When the new patient tower opens in early 2009 the bridges will help keep pedestrians safe, by moving some foot traffic off the street.

Starting Monday -- Hospital entry changes (665 Winter Street SE): Because the new sky bridge connecting the current hospital to the new tower will be near the entry of the current hospital, traffic at the front entry needs to be limited during construction. This change will be in effect for 10 to 12 weeks.

What is changing:

The valet parking service is moving to the west side of the hospital (the back side).

To use the valet service, enter using the South drive, between the hospital and the Oregon School for the Blind's playground.

The north entrance, adjacent to the ER, is only for ambulances and people going to the ER.

Patient discharges will move to the front entrance of the hospital.

Medical transport pick-up and drop-off also moves to the front entrance of the hospital.

There will be a person stationed at the front entrance during daytime hours to help decrease confusion.

What is not changing:

The shuttle service will remain at the front of the building.

Pedestrians will still be able to access the front door but the path may be modified periodically. Construction signs will provide direction.

There are no changes to the main lobby.

Starting April 16th

Entry changes at the Center for Outpatient Medicine (875 Oak St. SE):

From the East:

You will now enter through a new door, on the east side of the building. When you enter the building, you'll walk straight ahead to the lobby.

The current path from the east to the front of the building is being closed so building of the new sky bridge that will connect the Center for Outpatient Medicine to the new tower can begin.

From the West:

There is no change; you will still be able to access the front door from the west side, using either the ramp or the sidewalk.

New walkway to the hospital:

What is changing:

If you currently walk past the birth center and the Center for Outpatient Medicine to get to the hospital, your path changes. Instead of walking in front of those buildings, you will walk behind them. This change is necessary because of construction.

What is not changing:

The South walkway, along Pringle Creek, remains in service. Keep in mind that parts of this path are steep and may not be the best option for some people with mobility problems.

Please try the shuttle:

Patients and visitors are encouraged to try our free shuttle service.

Park in the garage and catch the shuttle on the Capitol Street SE side of the garage.

The shuttle is available Monday through Friday from 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM and on Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM.