As the final phase of construction nears completion at Gloucester’s Riverside Walter Reed Hospital, administrators and staff have announced that Gov. Ralph Northam will join other dignitaries for a VIP reception and ribbon cutting at 5:30 this afternoon.

The renovation and expansion project included construction of a new main lobby and entrance to the hospital, surgical services building, and new private patient rooms. The project cost totaled $55 million.

The private VIP event precedes a public open house on Saturday, but will be broadcast via Facebook Live. To follow the Governor’s remarks, visit www.facebook.com/RiversideWalterReedMidPen at the time of the event. ...