Kern County hospital retrofitted to address seismic events
Bakersfield, California: $22.7 million
Project Description
The Kern Valley Hospital is at risk of earthquakes as it lies within 60 miles of several major faults. Two major seismic events have affected this area, the Kern County Earthquake of 1952, and three Ridgecrest earthquakes in 2019. The multi-jurisdictional plan that covers Kern County, considers hospitals to be critical after a seismic event.
This project will retrofit the Kern Valley Hospital by adding shear walls, strengthening roof diaphragms, and adding drag links to the structure. These efforts will protect the acute and emergency care hospital building, prevent injuries to staff and patients and allow the hospital to remain in full operation during and after a seismic event.