The emergency room at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Dickson City is tentatively set to reopen this Friday, according to statements made by Governor Josh Shapiro and other elected officials. This announcement follows the devastating fire that severely damaged the hospital’s orthopedic unit last Wednesday.
While Lehigh Valley Health Network, an affiliate of Jefferson Health, has not confirmed the reopening date, Shapiro emphasized that safety certification from the Department of Health is essential before the hospital can resume operations. Speaking at the Dickson City Fire Department, Shapiro assured, “The hospital can’t open unless the Department of Health certifies that it is safe to reopen.” He added that efforts are being made to expedite the process without compromising safety standards.
During the event, Shapiro, alongside first responders and local representatives, commended the immediate and effective response to the blaze. Fire Chief Rich Chowanec and state Rep. Bridget Kosierowski confirmed the target of reopening on Friday, with Kosierowski expressing gratitude for the efforts to restore the facility, stating, “Emergency room care is essential. I am grateful for all of the work that has been done.”
Hospital engineers have confirmed that the building’s main structure remains intact, with the majority of the damage concentrated in the Medical Office Building. Despite the temporary closure, hospital staff continue to receive their salaries, and an FAQ page has been set up for patient inquiries.
The fire, which erupted late Wednesday at the orthopedic department, led to the evacuation of 77 patients, including six from intensive care. Geisinger hospitals stepped in to accommodate some of the evacuated patients, with two remaining under their care as of today.
Shapiro Acknowledges First Responders’ Efforts
Governor Shapiro took a moment to praise the bravery of the first responders, recalling his own experience during an arson attack on the governor’s residence. “When an arsonist attacked me and my family while we slept at the governor’s residence, I had the opportunity to witness firsthand, together with my wife Lori and our four children, your heroism,” he shared, highlighting the courage demonstrated by emergency personnel.
Fire Chief Chowanec expressed pride in the team’s ability to manage the crisis without casualties and to contain the fire to the orthopedic area. “We pulled off the impossible last week,” he remarked.
State Funding for Emergency Services
In addition to expressing gratitude, Shapiro announced a $37 million allocation for fire departments across Pennsylvania, with $16,000 earmarked for Dickson City Fire. This initiative is part of a broader $53.3 billion budget proposal that includes a $30 million competitive grant fund for fire departments, aimed at bolstering resources for emergency services.
Chief Chowanec welcomed the funding, noting the high costs of fire apparatus, which can reach $1.2 million. “We can’t flip enough chickens to buy a piece of fire apparatus. That’s where this funding comes into play,” he stated, emphasizing the critical nature of these funds for maintaining public safety services.
