A look back: Oct. 10, 1969

Eugene S. Durigan, president of the board of directors of the Gnaden Huetten Memorial Hospital, Lehighton, announced today that approval to proceed with plans for the construction of an 80-bed nursing home has been received from the Department of Medical and Hospital Facilities.

A recent survey concluded by Health Services Associates indicated there is an immediate need for nursing home beds in Carbon County, he said.

Dr. James Farr, chief of staff at the hospital, said Gnaden Huetten “will be able to render care and treatment with the greatest efficiency at one location.”

A target date for groundbreaking and construction is tentatively set for the spring of 1970.