Crusader awarded $3M for new clinic

ROCKFORD — Crusader Community Health plans to renovate the former Brookside clinic into a new community health facility.

Gov. Pat Quinn announced $3 million in state funds on Thursday to help Crusader acquire and renovate the former Brookside Immediate and Occupational Care, 1215 N. Alpine Road. SwedishAmerican Health System relocated its busy Brookside clinic to 2473 McFarland Road in February.

The former Brookside clinic will be redeveloped into Crusader’s sixth major facility.

“The central Rockford location will provide additional access to affordable and high quality health care for all,” said Gordon Eggers, president and CEO of Crusader Community Health, in a news release.

The 2009 Community Health Center Construction Act provides funding to repair outdated buildings, convert vacant commercial space, build new health center facilities and purchase new equipment for additional services.

“An investment in this community health center in Rockford is an investment in the health and wellness of the people of Winnebago County,” Quinn said in a news release. “It is also a critical step in transforming our healthcare system and ensuring that everyone has access to the services they need.”

— Kevin Haas