STOP OVERLOOK's HELIPORT

Overlook Hospital plans to erect a 50x50 foot heliport and 27-foot-tall elevator column on the top of its Tower where the flagpole now stands.
Imagine such a structure atop the already looming tower.  Then remember that it will be erected only a couple hundred feet from the nearest Summit residents.  Common sense says the heliport makes no sense.

Overlook speaks of this rooftop heliport in terms that no one dare criticize.  They know basic humanity encourages us all to be on the side of "saving lives".   They hope all will assume that when Overlook wants something it's always because that "something" makes a real difference between life and death for their patients. 

But let's be clear. The benefit to patients of this heliport is minimal.  If you believe that this heliport is for trauma patients, you are mistaken. Overlook is not currently a trauma hospital and has stated it will not seek to become a trauma hospital, nor will the State of NJ allow it to become a trauma hospital based on its close proximity to sister hospital Morristown Memorial.  The heliport will be used to transport a specific segment of patients.  This segment of patients is already being transported successfully--without incident--to Overlook.

So why does Overlook want a heliport?

The heliport is intended to elevate Overlook's prestige.  Overlook physicians have testified that their operation needs a heliport to market certain equiptment and personnel investments and continue to grow.  Yes, there is noble talk about helping patients--but by Overlook's own admission they are already providing state-of-the-art, superb treatment for patients.  And, Overlook has offered no evidence that patients are suffering negative consequences that a heliport would improve.

Neither Summit nor its residents derive any benefit from this plan. In fact, the cost to the community for a "nice to have" heliport are substantial.

A heliport will result in the urbanization of our suburban enclave, a negative impact on property values, safety concerns for our densely populated community, disruption of the peace for all Summit residents--not just those on the helicopter's sizable flight path--and a return to the past when Overlook suffocated the surrounding neighborhoods in its pursuit of growth. Indeed, the hospital's continued expansion--which can otherwise take place in a wise manner--virtuallly ensures the heliport eventually will be used far more than the administration now says.

No other NJ hospital located in a town like Summit has a heliport--because they are a bad idea in a suburban community.  In fact, many experts believe that medevac helicopters are overused and are a mere marketing tool.

Overlook is depending on your apathy! 

Make your voice heard.  Please join us in saying NO TO THE HELIPORT.  Sign the petition found below.  Forward it to others in our community so that they may do the same.

Show the town of Summit that we care about how our community matures by joining us on Tuesday, Jan. 26, 8:30 at City Hall.

Thank you!