(KNZA)--Construction work is set to begin Thursday on Holton Community Hospital’s $14.6 million expansion and renovation project.

According to a news release, more than 70 people attended a groundbreaking ceremony held Friday, where Hospital CEO Carrie Saia thanked everyone who made what the release calls a “monumental day” possible. “We would not be here today without the support of our donors, community and staff,” Saia said in the release. “This day is in honor of everyone who has worked diligently over the past year to make this a reality.”

The project will feature a new rural health clinic, expanded emergency department and specialty clinic areas, renovations to the inpatient area, surgery and public restrooms and other public areas, as well as $2.5 million in new equipment.

Saia said they have simply outgrown the space in the current 20 year old hospital, explaining that the project will allow the hospital to expand services and provide additional privacy and safety for their patients and staff.

The project is being funded through a $14.6 million USDA Rural Development loan.

Nearly $2.1 million has been raised so far in contributions toward the hospital’s expansion. More than $300,000 was raised through Kansas Department of Commerce Community Services Tax Credit program but the largest portion came from the hospital’s year-long Embrace the Future capital campaign in which employees and community members donated or pledged more than $1.4 million toward the project. The J.E. and L.E Mabee Foundation also awarded the HCH Foundation a $400,000 challenge grant.

Bern-based AHRS Construction has been given a 16-month window to complete construction.