The $10.5 million dollar project to expand the Elk Regional Health Center in St.Mary's is complete. 

Construction for the project began on July 5, 2011. 

The expansion includes a new floor at the hospital that encompasses approximately 37,500 square feet. 

Through a capital campaign project the hospital was able to raise more than $4 million as of Dec. 1, 2012. 

Officials said initially their goal was to raise $2.5 million. 

The new floor includes 42 room units for patients receiving medical, surgical and pediatric care. 

There is also a 10 room unit that provides inpatient care for patients over the age of 55 with behavioral or mental health illnesses. 

"The change is just unbelievable, from the old rooms that we have to the new rooms that we have now. People should be very pleased," said registered nurse, Jennifer McAllister. 

The new floor at the hospital cost approximately $7.3 million. 

Officials said the remainder of the money raised through the campaign was used to construct the new maternity unit which opened on June 5, 2012.

"Getting a project of this magnitude up and running takes a lot of work. Takes a lot of team work. Takes a lot of money. Takes a lot of meetings, but its really been productive," said Sam MacDonald. 

Officials said the new addition will set them apart from other local hospitals. 

"We're going to be the only hospital in our immediate region that has private patient rooms. I think that's a huge selling point for the hospital. I think it's a huge way to show our commitment to the patients," he said. 

Each room includes a private bathroom and shower. There is space for visitors and family members who may need to stay over night.  Patients will also have access to free wireless internet service. 

"This expansion project was absolutely critical -- not only for the health and well being of those served by our hospital, but for the long-term viability of the hospital itself. Health systems compete to be a patient's first choice. As that competition stiffens in the wake of federal health reform legislation, we felt it was of critical importance to be the most modern choice for our patients," said President and CEO of Elk Regional Health Center, Gregory Bauer. 

Officials are hoping to have patients moved into the new floor by the end of the month.