Project Overview

The University of California Board of Regents has greenlit a novel cancer treatment center as part of the comprehensive Dogpatch Power Station project situated in southeast San Francisco. This facility will not only host a proton therapy center but also include research spaces, a life sciences incubator, and both primary and specialty care clinics.

Construction Details

This architecturally striking eight-story building will feature two subterranean levels dedicated to the proton therapy center. The complete project is estimated to provide clinical space by 2028, while the proton therapy center is set to open in 2029.

Enhanced Access to Cancer Care

Designed by Herzog & de Meuron alongside Stantec, this state-of-the-art facility aims to ameliorate accessibility to world-class clinical care. Positioned four blocks south of UCSF’s Mission Bay campus, the new building will cater to a rising patient population seeking specialized health services.

“UCSF Health is driven by an unwavering commitment to improving access to care and ensuring every person in our community can receive the care they need,” stated Suresh Gunasekaran, president and CEO of UCSF Health. “This facility will establish a new hub for leading-edge care in San Francisco’s southeastern corner.”

Revolutionizing Cancer Treatment

The proton therapy center will offer advanced cancer treatments, applying concentrated radiation doses to target cancerous cells while minimizing harm to surrounding tissues. This approach is primarily beneficial for difficult-to-treat cancers such as those affecting the brain, lung, and prostate.

“Our vision to bring proton therapy to cancer patients at UCSF has taken years to reach realization,” expressed Catherine Park, MD, chair of UCSF Radiation Oncology. “Access to state-of-the-art proton therapy will advance the possibility of cure and reduce side effects.”

Supporting Bioscience Innovation

In addition to advancing clinical care, the facility will host a life sciences business incubator, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within California’s burgeoning biotech sector. This incubator aims to create opportunities for faculty, graduate, and professional students.

Environmental Considerations

Targeting LEED™ Gold certification, the UCSF Life Sciences Building will feature a sustainable design that enhances daylight and energy efficiency. Its commitment to environmental stewardship includes accessible public transit options for the community.

Community Engagement

The development process has been marked by extensive community engagement, with numerous tours and meetings orchestrated by the project’s lead developer, Associate Capital. This initiative received unanimous approval from various city regulatory bodies, reflecting the positive community sentiment surrounding the project.

Enrique Landa of Associate Capital remarked, “Now we have an opportunity to partner with UCSF and bring its world-class health care to this very same community.”