Hoboken University Hospital is dealing with a broken cooling system as a heat wave in the northeast region continues, with the heat index expected to reach between 95 and 98 degrees this afternoon, according to the National Weather Service.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“Hoboken University Hospital leadership is aware of a temporary interruption to the hospital’s cooling system. The facilities team is working diligently to conduct repairs, which have been underway. Every precaution is being taken to ensure patient safety and the hospital remains operational and open to the public,” said Hudson Regional Health spokesman Vijay Chaudhuri.
“Since taking over the system in 2024, HRH has invested tens of millions of dollars to upgrade Hoboken University Hospital, an aging facility long-neglected by prior ownership, and in need of significant infrastructure upgrades. HRH remains committed to working with hospital stakeholders to further revitalize the building in the years ahead.”
He added that HRH has been in contact with the New Jersey Department of health and local elected officials.
“I just left Hoboken University Hospital with Public Safety Director Ken Ferrante, and I remain in constant communication with hospital leadership, ownership, and the NJ Department of Health as we work together to support patients and staff during this cooling system failure,” Mayor Emily Jabbour said in a statement late Tuesday afternoon.
“The hospital now has portable AC units operating, and our Office of Emergency Management will remain on scene to assist. We will continue to monitor the situation as we are committed to ensuring that everyone in the hospital remains safe, supported, and cared for. The well‑being of the community remains my highest priority.”
HRH withdrew their certificate of need to close Heights University Hospital in Jersey City last month, which cancelled a NJDOH-hosted meeting in the 11th hour following an order from a superior court judge, as HCV first reported.
HRH CEO Dr. Nizar Kifaieh said in an interview that the Palisade Avenue hospital can reopen with the right support from county, state, and local officials.
Editor’s note: This story was updated with a comment from Hoboken Mayor Emily Jabbour.