February 21, 2025
A private labor and delivery suite bathed in natural light. A peaceful chemotherapy infusion room overlooking a terrace where a garden blooms. A state-of-the art center for cardiothoracic imaging. A comfortable, airy waiting room for patients who see providers at the kidney transplant center.
Those scenes were depicted in architect renderings of a revitalized Downstate University Hospital, unveiled by the advocacy group Brooklyn for Downstate (BFD) at a Feb. 20 virtual press conference.
BFD members said they hoped the renderings would become reality and someday be included in an updated, reimagined Downstate hospital. The plans, created by the architecture firm NBBJ, align with community suggestions for what is most needed at the hospital.
“The renderings could revitalize the hospital, bring great energy into the community and help the committed staff who serve the community,” said Bishop Orlando Findlayter, a member of the Brooklyn faith community and a BFD steering committee member. “I urge the governor and legislators to look at it and partner with us. Let’s close the deal let’s move forward.”
Click HERE to view the renderings. Click HERE to read the press release.
It could cost as much as $1 billion in capital funding to make BFD’s renovations, said BFD Steering Committee member Redetha Abrahams-Nichols. That’s about $250 million more than what Gov. Kathy Hochul set aside for Downstate hospital in her 2025-2026 Executive Budget.
However, Brookyln for Downstate members see the $750 million as a starting point for funding renovations to Downstate hospital and have vowed to push for enough funding to meet the needs of the community.
While the hospital’s infrastructure is solid, the SUNY-operated public teaching hospital is in need of vital upgrades to its emergency department, kidney transplant center and other renovations.
The BFD plan would include a revitalized, expanded ER; improved maternal, OB/GYN and labor and delivery facilities; cardiothoracic services, including surgical space; oncology services; and an upgrade to the hospital’s kidney transplant services. Downstate is the only hospital in Kings County equipped to provide transplant services.
Those improvements are outlined in a December 2024 report issued by Brooklyn for Downstate’s on vital health care services provided at SUNY Downstate University Hospital and recommendations for the long-term success of the hospital.
Brooklyn for Downstate’s plan is one of several being considered by the Downstate Community Advisory Board, created by Hochul last year to get community input and submit recommendations for the hospital’s long-term sustainability. That report is due April 1.
UUP President Fred Kowal sits on the committee, which does not open its meetings to the public. It will hold the second of three state-mandated public hearings from 6 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 27 at Medger Evers College,1650 Bedford Ave., Brooklyn.
Register HERE to speak at the event.
Read the press release HERE.