News Summary
Northern Arizona Healthcare has commenced construction on a new ambulatory surgical center at the Summit Center in Flagstaff, aimed at enhancing healthcare services. The project will see a complete interior remodel and a significant expansion scheduled for completion in January 2028. With a community-driven focus to improve healthcare accessibility, this initiative follows feedback that discouraged the establishment of a new hospital. The phased construction will also include plans for the relocation of Flagstaff Medical Center, demonstrating NAH’s commitment to meeting the region’s healthcare needs.
Flagstaff, Arizona – Northern Arizona Healthcare Begins Construction on New Ambulatory Surgical Center
Northern Arizona Healthcare (NAH) has officially announced the commencement of construction on a new ambulatory surgical center at the Summit Center, located adjacent to the Flagstaff Medical Center. This development comes after the decision to repurpose the property, which was initially available for sale. The NAH CEO, Dave Cheney, shared that the remodel and expansion of the Summit Center are now underway, indicating a commitment to enhancing healthcare services in the region.
The initial phase of construction is set to last approximately 18 months, with the revised Summit Center expected to welcome its first patient by mid-fall of 2026. Plans include two additional development phases that will take place between fall 2026 and spring 2028 to complete the facility’s upgrades.
Key Details of the Construction Project
Remodeling of the existing Summit Center is slated to commence in early March 2025. This project aims to include a complete interior remodel of the facility along with a significant expansion of 6,000 square feet to better serve the community’s healthcare needs. The construction is expected to wrap up with the completion of the entire project by January 2028.
NAH is also exploring options for the relocation of the Flagstaff Medical Center (FMC), evaluating four potential sites. A final decision regarding this relocation is anticipated to be publicized by the end of 2025.
Community Reaction and Future Plans
The City of Flagstaff is also preparing for a celebratory Independence Day event in 2025, featuring a free drone show and traditional festivities such as the annual Fourth of July parade. This celebration coincides with the ongoing construction efforts of NAH, indicating a positive shift toward community engagement and celebration.
Background Context
This project is part of NAH’s broader initiative to address the evolving healthcare demands of the Flagstaff community. The choice to develop an ambulatory surgical center rather than pursuing previous plans for a new hospital reflects a strategic response to the local population’s preferences and the need for convenient healthcare services.
Overall, the advancements at the Summit Center mark a significant milestone in the enhancement of healthcare services in Northern Arizona, providing residents with better access to quality surgical care. Additionally, the phased approach to construction underscores NAH’s commitment to a thorough and effective development process.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Arizona Daily Sun: Northern Arizona Healthcare Starts Construction on Summit Center Remodel
- AZ Central: Northern Arizona Healthcare Announces Renovations and New Surgery Center in Flagstaff
- KAFF News: Construction on Northern Arizona Healthcare’s Summit Center Begins
- Flagstaff Business News: Northern Arizona Healthcare to Acquire Summit Surgery Center in Flagstaff
- Wikipedia: Ambulatory Surgery
