Northwestern Medicine announced Monday it is moving ahead with plans to build a new 150,000-square-foot cancer institute in Orland Park, marking one of the most significant healthcare investments the village has ever seen.
“I’m thrilled,” said Trustee John Lawler. “This is huge for not just Orland Park but for the entire southwest region. People will have a state-of-the-art cancer center in the southwest suburbs without having to travel to the city of Chicago. In addition, the new hospital will create a number of new jobs.”
Northwestern Medicine said the St. George Cancer Hospital will be a specialized oncology center on land between 15300 and 15400 West Ave. in the 153rd Street Corridor.
Trustee Cindy Nelson-Katsenes said the project will now enter its next phase as architects, engineers and medical leaders continue shaping the facility’s design and scope.
“We will have (another) world-class medical facility in our own backyard,” she said. “Downtown (Chicago) was where people had to go to get the best medical care. Now that same care is out here.”
She also lauded neighboring Tinley Park for having added several top-notch healthcare facilities along LaGrange Road.
Several people representing Northwestern Medicine in various phases of the development were on hand at Monday night’s Village Board meeting to discuss the plans and answer any questions. They said that more than 150 hospital jobs will be created along with some 350 construction jobs.
Northwestern Medicine representatives described the project as “patient‑forward,” emphasizing comfort, accessibility and innovation.
Village Manager George Koczwara said the hospital will bring cutting‑edge cancer treatment closer to residents in the southwest suburbs, reducing travel times for patients who currently commute to Chicago or other major medical hubs for advanced care.
Some of the key features of the planned facility include: Advanced oncology suites designed for immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and precision‑based cancer treatments: family support spaces including counseling rooms, quiet areas and resources for caregivers; research collaboration hubs where clinicians and scientists can work jointly on new therapies and community wellness programs aimed at prevention, early detection and long‑term survivorship.
Trustee Bill Healy said the hospital “could become a regional anchor for cancer care, offering services that previously required long drives or multiple appointments across different facilities.”
Construction timelines have not yet been finalized, but early site preparations are expected to begin once regulatory reviews are complete.
Mayor Jim Dodge and other village leaders expressed optimism about the project’s economic and social impact, noting that the hospital will bring new jobs, partnerships and expanded medical services to the area.
Northwestern Medicine is expected to release additional design renderings and construction schedules later this year. The village will continue reviewing infrastructure needs, traffic considerations and community feedback as the project moves forward.
Great news! This is all excellent.