A historical reflection on healthcare in South Georgia and an exciting vision for the future of unequaled access to advanced care delivery programs for women’s and infant care and emergency and trauma services was the focus of SGMC Health system leaders, elected officials, community leaders, physicians, and staff at SGMC Health Main on Sept. 19. Approximately 300 people gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking ceremony and dedication of the soon to come facilities for SGMC Health's main campus expansion, marking the largest and most significant project in the health system's history.   

This $150 million investment will enhance healthcare services, improve accessibility, and add state-of-the-art facilities. Notable improvements include a uniquely designed Women and Infants Tower with a dedicated entrance, a new Emergency Department and Trauma Center, and the relocation of the main entrance from Pendleton Drive to Woodrow Wilson Drive.    

Ronald E. Dean, President and CEO of SGMC Health, expressed his excitement, stating, “This expansion project is a direct result of our SGMC Health physicians desire to provide an unsurpassed patient experience and unequaled access to advance capabilities and the hard work and dedication of our 3,200 health system employees. It truly reflects the commitment of so many throughout the region to advance healthcare for the people we serve for generations to come.” Dean took the opportunity to commend the Board of Directors, medical staff and elected officials for their leadership and support. 

Joe Brownlee, Georgia Power Regional Director, Chairman of the Board for the Valdosta Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce, and Vice-Chair of the SGMC Health Foundation, shared how the project will serve as a significant boost to the local economy, creating hundreds of jobs and promoting commerce throughout the area.   

SGMC Health generates over $1 billion in economic benefit to Lowndes County, and Brownlee commended SGMC Health's leadership for cultivating a culture of collaboration and partnership among vital industries, organizations, elected officials, and community leaders to support growth and advancements in healthcare. The SGMC Health Foundation Board has set an ambitious goal to raise $10 million toward this expansion project, and Brownlee has been instrumental in helping guide efforts toward achieving this target. 

Valdosta Mayor Scott James Matheson and Lowndes County Commission Chairman Bill Slaughter also spoke on the impact of the expansion. Their shared message—as the community continues to grow, so does the need for healthcare. This investment is a testament to the dedication of SGMC Health to ensuring the wellbeing of Valdosta, Lowndes County, and surrounding areas. This project is more than bricks and mortar—it’s a commitment to the future health of the region.   

Dean shared, "We deeply appreciate the trust our patients place in us. The support of the community enables us to invest in cutting-edge technologies, programs, and facilities that elevate the care we provide."   

Several SGMC Health physicians shared their thoughts on the groundbreaking, highlighting the significance of the expansion for both the medical community and patients. Among them were Jared Sanders, MD, Medical Chief of Staff and Board-Certified General Surgeon; Elizabeth Flail, DO, Co-Director of Emergency Services and Urgent Care; Hank Moseley, MD, Obstetrician and Gynecologist; and Charlene Blache, MD, Pediatrician.    

Also in attendance were project partners Goodwyn Mills Cawood (Architecture and Engineering), Hoar Construction, and Adams Management Services, who expressed their enthusiasm for collaborating on a project that will have a lasting impact on the community and region for decades to come.  

Adams Vice President Joe Gordy emphasized the long planning and collaboration efforts behind the project, stating, “This world-class facility has culminated from months of planning and design efforts. It has truly been a pleasure and an honor to work with this team, and we look forward to continuing our effort to develop state-of-the-art healthcare tools and resources that advance care across the region.”  

Kerry Hendricks, Senior Project Manager for Hoar Construction, shared similar sentiments, noting the importance of the project both for the campus and the local community. “We are thrilled to bring this state-of-the-art facility to this community and to deliver the largest capital project to date for this campus. This new expansion will have a significant impact on the area, and we are immensely proud to play a part in bringing this to life.” 

Steve Alby, Vice President of Healthcare at Goodwyn Mills Cawood, reflected on the longstanding partnership between SGMC Health and his firm. “Since we began working with SGMC Health, their commitment to developing facilities that support not only its medical professionals, but the well-being of every patient and individual that walks through the doors, has been evident. We are excited to help bring SGMC’s vision to fruition.” 

The construction is expected to take approximately two years to complete and will occur in front of the current Dasher Heart Center and emergency department. While the Dasher and Outpatient Center entrances facing Woodrow Wilson Drive will be closed during this time, all hospital services will continue to operate seamlessly without interruption. All non-emergent patients and visitors should utilize the main entrance on Pendleton Drive during this time. Emergency patients should utilize the new drop off and parking available via Cowart Avenue and North Ashley Street.   

Community members are encouraged to visit the dedicated expansion website at sgmc.org/growth to explore renderings, stay updated on project news, and access maps for easier navigation during construction.    

With a rich history dating back to 1955, SGMC Health has been a cornerstone of the Valdosta community. Today’s groundbreaking marks a new chapter in its legacy, ensuring that the health system remains at the forefront of medical innovation and care for years to come.