Demolition of former Lakeside Inn begins

Demolition of the Lakeside Inn began this spring with ancillary buildings coming down, but the main structure alongside Highway 50 is set to be demolished starting Monday, officials said.

“Furthering its mission of improving community health and well-being, Barton Health is moving forward with its regional expansion, which will broaden regional medical services,” said Barton Public Information Officer Mindi Befu. She added that demolition was expected to begin at 9:15 a.m. Monday.

Demolition of ancillary buildings began in April, prior to which the space was used for community fire and police service training.

Barton Health is working with JM Environmental for the demolition. While Barton has not yet contracted with a partner for the construction there have been ongoing assessments of the needs of the community. Community feedback has been sought to assess current and future health care needs.

“Barton has gathered input from community stakeholders, partner agencies, and physician and staff teams for a broader strategic master plan to accompany the facility plan as the project moves forward,” Befu said. “A dual campus strategy will better position the healthcare system to serve the future needs of the region and ensure long term viability through improved access to services, efficiencies, and state-of-the-art technology and facilities.”

The hospital has set its sights on completing the planning phase by 2023 that will include a facilities master plan to outline the new buildings and services to be rendered with a target completion date as early as 2026.