Post Hospital
Status: Still Standing
Year Listed: 2012
Location: Clark County
The Post Hospital at the Fort Vancouver National Historic Reserve, significant as a fine example of military architecture from the early twentieth century, reflects innovation in medical practices and philosophies, particularly concerning X-ray technology and with the treatment of tuberculosis. Several environmental factors contribute to various issues that threaten the existence, structural integrity, and sustainability of the Post Hospital, which sits unoccupied. Most notably is its proximity to Interstate 5 and the associated air and noise pollution, exposure to acid rain resulting from traffic pollution mixing with rain, and direct sun exposure on the west side of the building. The most significant pending threat to the Post Hospital, however, is the construction of the Columbia River Crossing slated to begin in 2014. This important national infrastructure project will widen I-5 and place the interstate wall within 4 to 6 feet of the northwest corner of the Post Hospital Building. Officials with the Fort Vancouver National Historic Reserve hope the efforts in place to mitigate these threats will be successful, allowing the implementation of an envisioned community arts center in the building.