FORT IRWIN, Calif. — Groundbreaking ceremonies held May 30 marked the start of construction for a replacement to Ft. Irwin’s Weed Army Community Hospital, built more than 40 years ago.
“It should be noted that this is, in fact, one of the Army’s largest military construction projects breaking ground this year,” said Brig. Gen. Mike Wehr, South Pacific Division commander.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District manages the nearly $160 million contract awarded to Turner Construction Company of Washington, D.C. The 216,000 square-foot facility is to be the first net-zero, carbon neutral medical facility in the nation.
“You’ve got a consolidation of clinics, a more robust facility in terms of earthquakes and it’s powered by solar power, over 5 acres worth of solar collection… not only taking care of our Soldiers, but taking care of the environment,” said Wehr.
Since 1978, the USACE Medical Center of Expertise has supported more than 425 medical treatment and research facilities, including new hospitals at Fort Hood, San Antonio, Fort Belvoir and Fort Knox.
“This is more than a building; it is a national commitment to the strength of our Army, which is based in our Soldiers and the families that support them,” Wehr said.