(Michigan City, IN) - Franciscan Health has marked the 5th anniversary of its hospital located just outside the corporate boundaries of Michigan City.
The 425,000-square-foot multi-story hospital along Interstate 94 at U.S. 421 opened on January 12, 2019.
“This building would be nothing without the Franciscan people here doing the work that they do,” noted Franciscan Health Michigan City President and CEO Dean Mazzoni.
The facility, containing 123 private inpatient rooms and outpatient services in addition to advanced diagnostic equipment, was constructed by Tonn & Blank, which broke ground on the building in 2016 with a cost of construction close to $250 million.
The old Franciscan-owned St. Anthony Hospital at 301 W. Homer St. is now known as Legacy Campus, housing a Franciscan inpatient behavioral health unit, prenatal assistance program, and all-inclusive care program for the elderly.
Northwest Indiana Forum President and CEO Heather Ennis said the hospital’s new location is a key asset to the community and the region.
“Being right there on I-94 has really opened the hospital up to accessibility for more folks that feel like that’s a place that they want to go and a place where they’re going to and get quality care,” she said.
She also said the hospital is helping spur development nearby while contributing directly to the local economy.
During a Friday celebration, the first baby born at the hospital was given a warm welcome, as Aiden Faulkner of Michigan City was treated to gifts, balloons, cupcakes, and a visit from Spider-Man to mark the occasion.
Leah Garcia, a registered nurse who helped deliver him one day after the hospital opened, was also on hand for the festivities.
