Good Samaritan Phoenix: The Start of Kitchell’s Healthcare Construction Legacy

In 1962, Kitchell embarked on a journey that would shape Arizona’s healthcare landscape, beginning with the construction of Good Samaritan Hospital in Phoenix. This flagship project not only marked Kitchell’s first hospital build but also set the foundation for decades of leadership in specialized healthcare construction, including pioneering efforts in ICRA (Infection Control Risk Assessment) and interim life safety during active construction.

Good Samaritan Groundbreaking (Sam Kitchell is second to the right).

Throughout the 1960s and 70s, Kitchell’s work at Good Samaritan included transformative projects like a 21,370-square-foot E Wing addition in 1964, a 104,035-square-foot series of additions in 1966, and a 75,035-square-foot extended care addition in 1967. These projects, alongside investments in critical infrastructure such as a 9,000-square-foot central plant and a 200,000-square-foot parking garage, showcased Kitchell’s ability to build complex, large-scale healthcare facilities with precision and care.

The impact of this early work is clear—today, over half of Arizona’s hospitals have been built by Kitchell. The company’s expertise and dedication to healthcare construction continue to support medical professionals and improve patient experiences from California to Texas. Good Samaritan was just the beginning of a lasting legacy, one that proves Kitchell is more than a builder; it’s a partner in advancing community health across the nation.

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