Pipestone County Medical Center (PCMC) is making a significant investment in the future of local surgical care. The medical center’s governing board approved a $14.3 million renovation and expansion of the surgical department on Aug. 27. The project will increase capacity, modernize surgical spaces, and provide new equipment and technology for patients and providers.
A key component of the project will be adding a third operating room. The additional capacity will allow PCMC to accommodate projected growth in surgical demand while maintaining an operating room available for emergency procedures and other unexpected needs.
“This project is a significant investment in our ability to deliver high-quality surgical care close to home,” PCMC CEO Brad Burris said. “It positions PCMC to meet our community’s needs today and in the future.”
The project will also significantly upgrade PCMC’s existing surgical facilities. Two operating rooms will be renovated, and all three will be equipped with laminar airflow systems that deliver filtered air around the surgical field. The project also includes new laparoscopic and anesthesia equipment, updated supply racks and patient beds, and a modernized sterilization area.
The renovation will make better use of PCMC’s existing space rather than adding a new structure to the hospital. This will include improvements to the original portion of the hospital, constructed in 1963. Planned work includes renovated rooms, new locker rooms and equipment storage, updated shower and bathroom facilities, plumbing upgrades, and a patient and family waiting area.
The $14.3 million investment includes approximately $8.993 million for construction and renovation, with the remainder allocated to equipment and technology. The construction portion was initially budgeted at approximately $9.4 million. Favorable bids, particularly for mechanical, electrical and plumbing work, allowed PCMC to stay within that budget while retaining additional planned improvements.
Journey Construction will serve as the project’s general contractor, with Wold Architects and Engineers providing architectural and engineering services. Construction is scheduled to begin on Oct. 19 and is expected to be completed by February 2028.
Because the work will take place within an active healthcare facility, construction will be phased to allow surgical services to continue throughout the project. At least one operating room will remain available at all times, so surgeries will not need to stop during the renovation.