Construction is underway at Centinela Hospital Medical Center as a seismic retrofit project will help the hospital meet and exceed State of California earthquake codes. Drilling recently began in front of the West Tower of the hospital. In this first phase, "Tubex piles" will be drilled between 50 and 60 feet down and filled with concrete. In addition, the project will include the expansion of the emergency department to 60 beds and the renovation of patient care and public areas. The increase in the size of the emergency department is vital as over 60,000 patients come through its doors annually. The renovation will include a new emergency power plant and electrical upgrades; an expanded and remodeled Emergency Department; a new Clinical Laboratory and remodeled Physical Therapy area; a new 8th floor nursery and a new physician dining room. Great care and planning has been taken to ensure that patient care issues remain a top priority during construction.