Chippewa Falls Hospital Could Open Even Sooner than Expected

As Chippewa Falls residents continue to struggle with inadequate access to healthcare, a new hospital could open even sooner than expected.

In recent weeks, Aspirus Health cleared the final hurdles needed to move forward with plans for a new hospital in Chippewa Falls. Upon receiving city council approval to purchase 22.1 acres of land on Chippewa Crossing Boulevard, organization officials said they expected to open the hospital in as little as 18 months from the start of construction this spring.

In a letter to the community this week however, officials said they may be able to finish construction of the facility even earlier. The letter says Aspirus Health is exploring innovative construction methods that could significantly shorten the project’s timeline. Those methods include exploring the use of geothermal energy over the next two months and using local materials and contractors whenever possible.

The geothermal review will involve drilling into the ground at the site for testing. They also plan to build the facility in a way that opens the possibility of using solar power in the future.

When completed, the new hospital will feature 12 hospital beds, 18 exam rooms, two procedure rooms, and a lab area. The organization plans to hire 38 full time employees and 17 part time employees.

The letter cites gaps in healthcare for Chippewa Falls residents as the driving factor behind the shortened timeline. The Chippewa Valley Health Cooperative is also exploring the possibility of reopening the St. Joseph’s Hospital facility to address that same issue. The Chippewa Valley Health Cooperative is also planning a new community hospital in Lake Hallie.