Methodist Richardson Medical Center celebrates grand opening of two-story expansion

Methodist Richardson Medical Center held a grand opening for its $85 million vertical expansion Dec. 18. The project added two floors to the building and 150 patient rooms as well as additional pre-operation rooms and a seven-story parking garage.

Crews broke ground in January 2018 and completed the project Dec. 18, according to Methodist Richardson Medical Center President Ken Hutchenrider. The 22-month project was completed 75 days ahead of schedule and 10% under budget, Hutchenrider said at the event. He credited his staff, architects with Perkins and Will, and the Skiles Group construction team for the early completion.

“I want to tell you that it was easy—it wasn’t,” he said.

Hutchenrider said that leaders of area congregations were invited to the hospital earlier in the day to bless the new floors. The blessing demonstrates that Methodist is a “healthcare provider for everyone,” Hutchenrider said.

A growing regional population accelerated Methodist Richardson's expansion plans by five years, according to Pam Stoyanoff, president and chief operating officer of Methodist Health Systems. Data provided by Methodist Richardson in May showed that in 2016, 1.1 million people lived within the hospital’s service area. By 2021, that number is projected to increase by 7%.

CEO of Methodist Health Systems Jim Scoggin said he observed a special culture at the center as well as a commitment to its mission.

“The aesthetics of the campus are only surpassed by the wonderful work that goes on within its four walls,” Scoggin said at the grand opening.