The first of its kind in Central California, the Community Cancer Institute in Clovis, Calif., brings outpatient services and cutting-edge cancer technology together in one location so cancer patients don’t need to travel to multiple places for treatment. The building features natural light, floor-to-ceiling windows, larger-than-usual exam rooms and spacious infusion bays that provide comfort and privacy.

The 95,000 square foot, three-story building is available to provide a variety of services for over 3,600 cancer patients diagnosed throughout Community Medical Center’s cancer system of care. 

“Being that the Community Cancer Institute is the first of its kind in the Central Valley, it required an incredible team effort to deliver a facility that serves those who need it most in our community,” says Kit Bedell, Quiring General LLC, the general contractor for the project. “The care and attention to detail necessary to construct this building has been carried on into the treatments and healing processes that give hope to the patients, families and loved ones who enter its doors.”

Project Finished Early and Under Budget

The project team consisting of General Contractor Quiring General LLC, Tarlton and Son Inc., a specialty wall trade subcontractor, plumbers and electricians all worked together to finish the project early and under budget. This was despite a late start due to bad weather and an aggressive schedule for the project. 

“Extensive BIM efforts incorporating a multitude of trades (e.g. structural steel, framing/drywall, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection) assisted in ensuring the coordination between the trades and the mitigation of clashes during construction to ensure the building was delivered in a timely fashion,” Bedell says.

“The entire team, general contractor and all the subs worked very well together,” says Nick Patzkowsky, vice president of project management for Tarlton. “This made for a smooth, enjoyable project.”

Frame-to-Finish Solution

Tarlton and Son is a contractor in California that has been in business for 42 years. The company provides a complete frame-to-finish solution for their clients including framing, drywall, lath, plaster, painting, polishing, doors and hardware installation. “With one company doing this, the process was smooth and took a big load off the GC,” says Patzkowsky.

“Our dedication to our frame-to-finish solution provides unparalleled efficiencies to designers, owners and GCs alike,” he adds. “In addition, this internally provides upward mobility, diversity and longevity for dedicated and goal driven team members.”

Building Materials—Key to Project Success 

Behind the scenes, it was the building materials and attention to detail that were integral in creating the Cancer Institute so important to the community. 
Tarlton selected PABCO Gypsum for the exterior sheathing and interior drywall. “PABCO is our top choice when selecting our wall board,” says Patzkowsky. “Our rep is extremely helpful, we have no issues on delivery of the board and we get the technical information we need.”

Furthermore, the company prefers to use one manufacturer for a particular project. “It helps reduce error and our installers really like to hang the manufacturer’s board,” adds Patzkowsky. 

“I have been in the trade for over 20 years and have installed various manufacturers of gypsum panels,” says Frank Cadwell, drywall and taping foreman, Tarlton. “[The] board cuts clean, snaps clean and is light and flexible.”  

Other building materials used on the project were Synergy’s EIFS, ClarkDietrich’s metal studs and HD system, Hilti’s fasteners and firestop, Westpac’s taping materials, Armstrong’s drywall grid and PPG paint.  

“These are all top-quality building materials that I can rely on,” says Patzkowsky.

Making an Impact on the Community

The owner and donors were extremely pleased with the results according to Patzkowsky. “The Community Cancer Institute continues to define a ‘true system of care’ for Central Valley families, according to the Community Medical Centers,” says Lynette Smiley, vice president of oncology services, Community Cancer Institute. “The open, spacious and well-designed areas provide natural light that enhances overall treatment, to promote a more calming and healing environment.”

“This was truly a collaborative project that is not only a beautifully finished product, but is treating thousands of cancer cases monthly,” says Quiring General Matt Griffith. “It’s a great feeling knowing how much work went into this building and the impact it is making for the people of this community.”