Mayo Clinic reveals plans to upgrade the downtown subway system

Some big changes are in store for Rochester’s subway system.

On Monday, Mayo Clinic announced plans for “major upgrades” to six areas within the underground pedestrian system. The improvements are being made to “lighten and brighten” the tunnels and other public spaces.

Among the most significant changes are improved navigation, a more modern design, and the installation of wheelchair-friendly flooring.

"Our patients come to us with different levels of mobility, so smoother flooring on ramps will make it easier for families to assist loved ones in wheelchairs, and more seating in longer pedestrian corridors will provide welcome places to rest," said Stephanie Hurt, division chair for Support Services, in an announcement from Mayo. "The upgrades will make our patients' and visitors' time with Mayo Clinic easier and more enjoyable."

Construction is scheduled to begin in early November and be completed by December 2020. To limit disruptions, work will occur in phases.

Below is an overview of the planned upgrades.

• Zone 1: Baldwin-Guggenheim patient area and Mayo-Harwick staff corridor
  This area will receive improved lighting and acoustics, modern finishes, and displays of Mayo values and staff photography.

• Zone 2: Wanek Family Concourse (Mayo Building)
  Among the projects in this area will be improvements to the popular peregrine falcon exhibit.

• Zone 3, Mayo Building-Hilton Subway and Courtyard
  Projects will include enclosing what's now an outdoor courtyard at the Hilton Building for year-round use.

• Zone 4: Damon Subway
  This area will receive updated restrooms by the elevators, new lighting and modern finishes, improved wayfinding, and additional seating.

• Zone 5: Siebens Patient Cafeteria and Subway
  New dining and lounge seating will be added, with updated coffee stations and tableside food service.

• Zone 6: Hilton Atrium and Desk C
  The atrium will be brightened with modern design, and the area will receive a new seating arrangement, an updated check-in desk design, and improved routing of foot traffic.

Cover graphic courtesy Mayo Clinic