ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Monroe Community Hospital (MCH), a county-owned facility known for serving some of the region’s most medically complex patients, will receive more than $10.1 million in state funding to improve and expand critical care services.

The grant, awarded through New York’s Statewide Health Care Facility Transformation Program, will support upgrades to the hospital’s pediatric and ventilator units, which provide specialized treatment for children and adults with severe medical needs.

Hospital leaders emphasized the importance of the investment.

“The funding will help expand and improve care in the two units, ensuring these vital services continue to meet the highest standards for years to come,” said Alyssa Tallo, executive health director for Monroe Community Hospital.

As part of the project, the hospital will also renovate its outdoor playground, creating a more accessible and supportive space for young patients and their families.

County officials praised the award, noting that MCH has provided advanced care for nearly two centuries.

“Expanding and modernizing our pediatric and ventilator units ensures that our residents receive the specialized services they need,” County Executive Adam Bello said. “We’re proud to support MCH as it continues its nearly 200-year legacy of compassionate, cutting-edge health care in our community.”

The funding is part of a broader $300 million state initiative backing 50 health care projects across New York, aimed at modernizing facilities and improving patient care capacity statewide.

In addition to the state award, Monroe Community Hospital is moving forward with ongoing renovations in its Friendship Building. Supported by a grant from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, the project will create Friendship Place, a secure, supportive residence designed for individuals with dementia and wandering-like behaviors.

Founded nearly 200 years ago, MCH remains one of Monroe County’s cornerstone health care institutions, offering long-term care for patients who require specialized, high-level support not available in traditional nursing or rehabilitation settings.

The upgrades are expected to strengthen the hospital’s role as a regional leader in complex medical care, ensuring that vulnerable patients continue to receive compassionate treatment in a modernized facility.

Originally reported by Kevin Oklobzija in Rochester Business Journal.