St. Joseph Mercy Ann Arbor, located in Ann Arbor, Mich., recently announced plans for a new 66,000-square-foot cancer center. Groundbreaking is set for September with completion slated for November 2018.

Since opening the Robert H. and Judy Dow Alexander Cancer Center in 1993, the number of new patients diagnosed and treated for cancer at the cancer center has tripled to more than 3,400 patients in 2016. This multi-million-dollar transformation will allow St. Joe’s to better deliver comprehensive cancer care to patients.

Starting with a redesigned entrance that features a two-story glass atrium, patient ambassadors will assist patients to central registration where comprehensive information for their entire day’s visit will be available. Patient ambassadors will be available throughout the cancer center to ensure patients connect to the various services needed during their visit and make their visit as stress-free as possible.

The main floor of the new cancer center will feature an expanded infusion suite with 22 private bays and a view of a serenity garden. In addition, nurse navigators, genetic counselors, dietitians, chaplains, social workers and an on-site pharmacy for chemotherapy services will be located on the main floor. Patients will be seen on the second floor where St. Joe’s oncologists, surgeons and clinical staff will work together to care for patients.

The new lower level will become a dedicated space for St. Joe’s National Cancer Institute Oncology Research Program, clinical research staff and the Cancer Care Delivery program. In addition, conference rooms with videoconferencing capabilities will be created.

The hospital will be working with architectural firm Harley Ellis Devereaux (Southfield, Mich.) and Granger Construction (Lansing, Mich.) on this renovation and expansion.