ECMC also is in the midst of a $53 million upgrade of its emergency and trauma department, which should be finished next spring. The two projects illustrate the extensive changes the hospital is undergoing in the next few years.

The windows replacement work will continue this year until November, and then pause until the weather improves next year. The work will run on a seasonal schedule in both 2020 and 2021, before wrapping up sometime in 2022, said James Turner, senior vice president of surgical and outpatient services.

The exterior's appearance will end up looking brighter for a combination of reasons.

The new windows have a blue tint. Below the window panels will be glass panels, replacing the old, brown metal panels in place now. The concrete between the windows will be painted a lighter tan.

The blue tint of the windows will match the look of the behavioral health outpatient center next door. "It will make it look like a blended campus, more than independent buildings," Turner said.