More backup power OK'd for Libertyville rehab hospital
A rehabilitation hospital under construction in Libertyville has received the green light for what is considered a "major adjustment" to its development under village code.
Encompass Health asked to enlarge the size of a generator being planned for the facility taking shape at 1201 American Way, the northeast corner of Route 45 and Winchester Road.
Construction of the 61,490-square-foot hospital building began last October 2020 and is on pace to open next March.
The size of the original generator in the proposal did not have the capacity to support the functions of the hospital, the village reported.
The generator will be in the same location as originally proposed at the rear of the building on the west side. Instead of 34 feet long and 14 feet high, the generator will be 36.5 feet long and 20 feet high.
The generator will be screened by an 8-foot wall, as originally proposed, and landscaping. The generator will be painted to match the tan color of the building.
The village's advisory appearance review commission recommended the larger generator be approved, and the village board this week made it official.
Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Libertyville is planned as a $52.2 million, 60-bed facility with the potential to expand to 80 beds.
Physical occupational and speech therapies and 24-hour nursing care will be available for patients recovering from stroke, neurological conditions, brain injuries, hip fractures and other debilitating illnesses.
According to the company, it will include a therapy gym, cafeteria, dining room, pharmacy and therapy courtyard.
Alabama-based Encompass Health operates 144 inpatient hospitals and 343 home health and hospice locations in 42 states. The 65-bed Van Matre Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital in Rockford is its only other inpatient facility in Illinois.
The company proposed the Libertyville hospital in fall of 2019 citing a need for inpatient rehab facilities. Dozens of doctors and state and local politicians penned letters of support.