Catalina Island Medical Center's renovation project is nearing completion.

"The final touches are being placed on the patient rooms," said Administrator Bill Greene. "Things should be completed in the next couple of weeks."

Director of Maintenance Bill Vlcan is overseeing the last stages of the project, which include new furnishings, paint and window treatments in the skilled nursing and acute care patient rooms.

The painting and other aesthetic improvements are the final portion of the project. Also undergoing renovation were the emergency room, operating room and lobby. Construction was also completed in many of the patient rooms, including modifying the rest rooms to make them handicapped accessible. One of the patient rooms was also modified to become an isolation room. Construction was completed by EH Butland Development Corporation.

"Much of the most expensive work, like the air filtration and circulation system in the emergency room, will be invisible to our patients," Greene said. "But it will offer a safer, more comfortable environment."

Most of the improvements, including the filtration system, were mandated by state and federal law, according to the administrator.

The renovation project was the first major upgrade at the hospital portion of the facility in 20 years. A major renovation of the doctors' offices was completed in 2001.

Catalina Island residents and visitors will be able to experience the changes this month when CIMC opens its doors for an open house April 20. "We're excited about showing the community what we've accomplished," Greene said. Tours, appetizers and refreshments will be offered from 6 to 9 p.m.