Centra's proposed cancer center would feature 50,000 sf of space on a corner lot at Ahterholt and Langhome roads. By pooling together the radiation and medical oncology services, the building would allow the hospital to provide several cancer-related treatment programs and under one roof. Plans could ultimately include the addition of a library, pharmacy, consultation offices, a conference room and a specialty boutique catering to cancer patients.

Centra would erect its 140,000-sf patient care tower at its Lynchburg General Hospital site. The five-story structure would house nursing floors for the hospital's orthopedics and neurological care programs, as well as some oncology and surgery care endeavors. While developing the new facility, Centra would also upgrade 65,000 sf of space within Lynchburg General Hospital, and demolish a soon-to-be-vacant nearby building to make way for parking.

"The new alignment of services on our two campuses provides us with focus and flexibility," notes Centra president and CEO George W. Dawson. Project approval by the state health commission will not come before May. If all goes as planned, Centra can expect to begin construction activity at both sites as soon as October 2004.