Elevators and roofing will be replaced in parts of Leahi Hospital near Diamond Head after Gov. Linda Lingle released $1.2 million for the work.

Leahi Hospital is one of two public health facilities on O'ahu overseen by the Hawai'i Health Systems Corporation.

"Leahi Hospital was established more than 100 years ago and today benefits the community as a long-term care home and through its clinical research and drug assistance programs," Lingle said in a news release. "These improvements will ensure that the hospital continues to operate efficiently and effectively, and that patients and staff are well-served."

About $512,670 will fund the construction of a new roof for the hospital's Atherton Building to prevent further leaking and protect equipment and records from water damage. The building houses HHSC's administrative staff and clinical research offices of the University of Hawai'i medical school.

About $703,820 will be used to replace two elevator cabs in the hospital's Young Building, which is the residence area for long-term care patients and is used by visitors and hospital staff.

The design phase for both projects will be completed in December. Construction on the Atherton Building is scheduled to begin in the spring and be completed by December 2008. Construction on the Young Building is scheduled to begin in the spring and be completed by March 2009.