Recently, Community Memorial Hospital of Hamilton held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of a major building project. (Photo by Jessica Benson)

HAMILTON –  Community Memorial Hospital of Hamilton, New York has been undergoing a massive construction project aimed at increasing staff efficiency, enhancing patient care and modernizing the facility.

On Sunday, March 22, hospital staff, donors, community members and local leaders gathered at the hospital to celebrate the completion of the project with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

According to Community Memorial President and CEO Jeff Coakley, the project started in 2018 with a $10 million grant. As time passed, the scope and extent of the project changed. “This project began with one question in mind. How can we better serve patients who come to us for care?”

The completed construction includes a new medical-surgical wing with all private patient rooms, a new emergency department, including a waiting and registration area, a new main entrance and expanded spaces for radiology, rehabilitation and the laboratory.

“This project strengthens our ability to care for our community today while preparing us for the healthcare needs of tomorrow,” Coakley said. “It’s a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when a community comes together around a shared mission.”

Guests at Sunday’s event included Congressman John Manion, Assemblyman Joe Angelino, and New York State Senator Joe Griffo. Mannion spoke at the event, explaining the importance of supporting rural health care.

“We don’t want services to be lost in rural communities,” Mannion said. “We don’t want people to have to drive miles to get the care they need.”

Community Memorial’s capital project was supported by a campaign led by the hospital’s foundation volunteers. “This moment represents far more than the completion of a building,” said Ellen Percy Kraly, Hosptial Board of Directors Chair. “It represents the dedication, generosity, and shared vision of our employees, donors, partners, and community members who believed in what this project could accomplish. This state-of-the-art beautiful facility is an expression of our respect for the communities, and families served by CMH. We extend our deep appreciation to all those that were a part of this success.”

According to a press release, sent out by the hospital, the campaign exceeded expectations thanks to donors at every level. “This project was truly a community effort,” said Coakley. “From the generosity of donors to the dedication of all our staff and the expertise of our construction partners, this new facility stands as a symbol of what can be accomplished when people come together for a shared purpose.”

Coakley praised the work of the hospital board of directors, the staff, employees and donors who serve as a testament to the dedication of those who call the hospital home. “Most of all this project is for our patients,” he said.

The ribbon cutting marked one of Coakley’s last acts as President and CEO of Community Memorial Hospital. Coakley announced his retirement in the fall of last year. His replacement, Kathryn Willbarger will take over on May 26, 2026.