LLUH leaders pose for photo behind long ribbon with large scissors

LLUH leaders and government officials pose for photo at Children's Health Specialty Clinics ribbon-cutting event

With the cutting of a 31-foot ribbon, Loma Linda University Health (LLUH) leaders formally unveiled the new Loma Linda University Children’s Health Specialty Clinics Tuesday, October 6, marking a new era in pediatric care for children in the region.  

The five-story, 105,000-square-foot facility is one of the largest investments in outpatient pediatric specialty care in the Inland Empire, with support provided through Proposition 4, the Children’s Hospital Bond initiative, and LLUH’s “Stronger Together Campaign,” a philanthropic initiative meant to transform health care in the region. The campaign raised $15 million toward the construction of the Children’s Health Specialty Clinics.  

PEDIATRIC CARE UNDER ONE ROOF 

More than 21 pediatric specialties will now reside under one roof. Loma Linda University Children’s Health leaders expect this to help ease the burden of navigating to-and-from appointments for parents, especially those who have children with complex needs. The large number of exam rooms, 149, will also allow for greater efficiency during visits. 
 
Clinical laboratory services and radiology will also be available in the new space.   

“Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital always has the patient in mind,” said Peter Baker, senior vice president/administrator for Children’s Hospital. “This new facility will enable our clinicians to provide a seamless, coordinated experience for children and their families.”  

Francis Chan, MD, department chair of general pediatrics at LLUCH, echoed the benefits of having a centralized location. 

“Each specialty brings a unique area of expertise. But when we bring that expertise together into a building like this one, something even more powerful becomes possible,” Chan said. “Our providers can collaborate more closely. We can communicate about our patients, coordinate care, and work together to develop more unified treatment plans.” 

MOSAIC MURAL STANDS AS SYMBOL OF HOPE AND HEALING 

Following remarks from leaders and government officials, a mural symbolizing hope and healing was unveiled.  

The 10-by-15-foot mural, created with the help of Project S.N.A.P., is made up of more than 10,000 individual drawings submitted by children, families, patients, schools, and community members. The overall image includes Luke the Lion — LLUCH’s mascot — playing with children among local landmarks, including the Redlands Bowl, Mission Inn, and Arrowhead.  

BUILDING DESIGN CONCEPT HOLDS SPECIAL SIGNIFICANCE 

The building’s overall design concept carries special significance, as well, and is based on the image of a tree planted by the water from Jeremiah 17:7-8. Many natural elements are incorporated inside and outside the building. 

On the exterior, the dichroic glass windows give off a rainbow-like effect, and a large, living tree stands at the courtyard to symbolize calm and grounding upon arrival. Inside, images of critters and animals help improve wayfinding and create a child-friendly environment.  

Kris Jenson, construction manager for Layton Construction, the Salt Lake City, Utah-based general contractor tasked with the project, said Loma Linda University Health has been a valued client and partner for many years.  

“We are honored to continue that relationship through the Children’s Health Specialty Clinic project which will support the community for many years to come,” said Jenson. 

The Children’s Health Specialty Clinics is expected to begin serving patients in early 2027. 

For more information about the Children’s Health Specialty Clinics, click here.