The new state-of-the-art Radiation Oncology Suite in the Sophia Gordon Cancer Center provides advanced, life-saving therapies in a patient-centered environment for 9,000 patients annually. The suite includes two Varian Edge linear accelerators (LINACs) equipped with the Varian Identify motion management system, a Philips Big Bore CT simulator, a Varian Bravos High Dose Rate (HDR) brachytherapy procedural suite with mobile CT unit, 10 well-equipped exam rooms, four spacious patient consultation rooms, and four inpatient holding bays. A collaborative administrative office suite fosters seamless coordination among healthcare professionals. Patients can access the suite via a new canopy and patient drop off into an expansive welcome area featuring a sun-filled, glass-enclosed garden and waiting room, creating a calming and easily accessible arrival experience.

The team experienced challenging existing conditions related to a high-density concrete slab with steel aggregate, requiring a two-month redesign of the vault shielding support structure. The new self-supporting structure needed modifications to thicken and widen the newly poured footings. The modular block wall bracing system was reinforced to accommodate 15 added beams spanning the 30’ width of the vault and infilled with 3/16” welded steel plate. The primary shielding barrier, comprised of 5” thick lead blocks and 6” thick steel plate, was hung below this added diaphragm. The suspended shielding assembly weighed more than 125,000 lbs. per vault. The perimeter shielding for each vault consisted of 3’-5’ thick walls comprised of 45,000 high-density, interlocking modular blocks weighing over 1.5 million pounds. The construction team worked double shifts seven days a week to accommodate the redesign and deliver the vaults on time to the Varian installation team.

Completed ahead of schedule in 15 months and within budget, the project benefited from proactive planning, regular team check-ins, and meticulous tracking of construction activities.