Progress in Motion: Expanding Access at OLOL RMC

Lafayette is growing, and Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center is growing with it.

At Kent Design Build, we’re making steady progress on a multi-phase project to expand emergency care, surgical capacity, and clinical support space for one of Acadiana’s most trusted hospitals. This effort is about more than construction. It’s about creating smart, functional space that keeps up with the community’s growing needs.

We recently caught up with John Martarona, General Superintendent for Kent, to walk through the latest progress and what this build means for patients, providers, and the region as a whole.

Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center, the focus of a multi-phase expansion to enhance emergency, surgical, and clinical services.
Photo by Tim San Fillippo

From Drive Deck to Clinical Space

The area now under construction was originally an active emergency drive deck and ambulance drop-off zone, at times supporting up to seven ambulances even during construction. Located directly above critical electrical infrastructure that had to remain fully operational, the project posed significant logistical challenges.

“The original plan called for cutting into the drive deck to tie in structural supports from below,” said John Martarona. “But through close collaboration with the design team, we reimagined the approach and engineered a solution that placed structural stud members above the existing deck instead.”

This redesign minimized risk to the electrical plant, reduced costs, and preserved full emergency access throughout construction. Once complete, the new space will seamlessly integrate into the existing emergency department, expanding capacity and enhancing flexibility for clinical teams where it matters most.

What’s Being Added

Once complete, the emergency department expansion will feature:

• 11 exam rooms

• New nursing stations

• Clean and nourishment rooms

This thoughtful design supports faster triage, smoother movement, and more comfortable care—without disrupting current operations.

Craftsmanship That Delivers

We’re proud to be working with CbP Millworks of Harahan on this project. From nurse stations to solid-surface countertops, their commercial casework is designed with durability and workflow in mind. This week, Ben Bigler of CbP was on-site to review installation and provide added support as final pieces came together.

“CbP has been a real asset. Their attention to detail and ability to adapt on-site helps us deliver a cleaner, more efficient build,” Martarona said.

Expanding Surgical Capacity and Support

In addition to the ED expansion, we’re building a new operating room to increase surgical capacity and support more advanced procedures. Located adjacent to the existing OR suite, this modern space is designed for seamless integration and long-term flexibility.

Right next door, we’ve enclosed a former rooftop void to create much-needed equipment storage. This conversion improves surgical workflow and frees up valuable space elsewhere in the hospital.

Both areas required careful coordination to maintain safety and continuity during active hospital operations. Now, with the sixth-floor renovation complete, construction continues on the ED expansion, new OR, and rooftop support space. The full project remains on track for completion in August 2025.

As Lafayette continues to grow, Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center is making the right kind of investment. The hospital is expanding access to timely, high-quality care and creating room for the future. At Kent Design Build, we’re proud to be part of the progress.