By Staff
Huntsville Hospital's new tram system, the second hospital in the nation to have a campus tram system, will be officially dedicated today during a special ceremony at 11 a.m. with state and local officials on hand.
The dual track system running along Governors Drive connects Huntsville Hospital with the Huntsville Hospital for Women and Children campus.
Tram stops are located at the new Plaza Resource Building and the new Franklin Medical Tower located between the two buildings. The multi-purpose tram is used by the public, employees, doctors, patients in wheelchairs, beds and stretchers and for the transport of food, medical records, laboratory specimens and shared medical and housekeeping equipment.
In addition, there is a dedicated tube system that supports laboratories and pharmacies. Tangible annual savings with the tram are estimated to be $1 million.
The new transportation system is the first of its kind in Alabama.
The tram system by POMA-OTIS is a horizontal cable operated elevator capable of carrying 40 standing passengers. The system is designed for future expansion.