What's Happening?
Turner Construction has completed a $105 million oncology facility in Nashville, Tennessee, marking a significant development in healthcare infrastructure. The five-story, 311,881-square-foot Midtown Medical Office Building, developed for Tennessee Oncology,
consolidates multiple oncology specialties under one roof. Turner provided preconstruction and construction management services, including three levels of underground parking. The project involved managing three concurrent scopes of work, including the building's core and shell, a full interior fit-out of four floors, and a specialized drug development unit. This required coordination between field teams, trade partners, and designers to ensure safety and schedule alignment.
Why It's Important?
The completion of this facility is a critical advancement for cancer treatment in the region, offering a centralized location for various oncology specialties. This development reflects the growing demand for medical office buildings driven by the expansion of outpatient services. Turner Construction's involvement underscores its significant role in healthcare construction, a sector experiencing increased demand. The firm's ability to manage complex projects enhances its reputation and contributes to its substantial backlog, which exceeded $39 billion in the first half of the year. This project not only supports patient care but also stimulates local economic growth through construction and healthcare services.
What's Next?
Turner Construction continues to expand its footprint in healthcare construction, with ongoing projects such as a $1 billion hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, and a $550 million build at University Health's Palo Alto Hospital in San Antonio, Texas. The demand for medical office buildings is expected to rise, driven by outpatient service growth, potentially leading to more construction projects. Real estate consultancy JLL has highlighted increased occupancy in these facilities, indicating a trend that may influence future healthcare infrastructure developments.
Beyond the Headlines
The development of the oncology facility in Nashville highlights broader trends in healthcare infrastructure, including the shift towards outpatient services and the need for specialized medical facilities. This trend may lead to ethical considerations regarding access to care and the distribution of healthcare resources. Additionally, the construction of such facilities can impact local communities by providing jobs and improving healthcare access, potentially leading to long-term societal benefits.
