While the presidential election is still being decided, we can celebrate a great local victory for our work at UW Medicine. King County’s Proposition No. 1 for upgrades to Harborview Medical Center is being approved with 78% support as of this morning.
With the passage of this $1.74 billion bond measure, Harborview will have funds for several major capital projects. A new medical tower will provide expanded space for the region’s only Level I trauma and burn center, which serves Washington, Alaska, Montana and Idaho. It will also have single patient rooms that meet current best practice standards and that are essential for infection control and patient safety – a need that has been highlighted by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The bond measure also funds a new Behavioral Health Institute Building, which will help Harborview meet the acute need for more mental health services in our community. It will house a program for 24/7 crisis urgent care, the First Episode Psychosis program, a training center, and expanded mental health clinics.
In addition to these new buildings, other projects include the seismic stabilization and renovation of the Center Tower and Pioneer Square Clinic as well as the demolition of the East Clinic. The renovation of Harborview Hall will include seismic stabilization and space for up to 150 respite beds.
The passage of Proposition No. 1 is a tribute to our partnership with the King County Executive and Council and the outstanding work that our faculty and staff accomplish every day. It is especially gratifying that Harborview has been given this overwhelming vote of confidence to serve our community for generations to come.
As we await the results of the national election, we want to acknowledge the stress and anxiety that so many of us are experiencing. Please refer to the message that you received yesterday regarding UW Medicine Well-Being and Support for resources that are available to you and your families.
While our country continues to grapple with divided viewpoints on many issues, our mission at UW Medicine to improve the health of the public gives us a clear path forward.
We are united by our work, our support of each other, and our commitment to the well-being of our community.
Sincerely,
Paul G. Ramsey, MD
CEO, UW Medicine
Executive Vice President for Medical Affairs and
Dean of the School of Medicine,
University of Washington
Lisa Brandenburg
President, UW Medicine Hospitals & Clinics and
Vice President for Medical Affairs
University of Washington
