Rush plans to build a new center to treat people in the event of chemical and biological attacks or outbreaks of infectious disease.
Governor Pat Quinn was onsite Tuesday with workers who will build the new facility.
Quinn said that "major institutions" like the Rush hospital are needed in the wake of 9-11 "in case of emergency."
It will be part of a new $600 million hospital.
The new center will also be used on a daily basis as an expanded emergency room.
