PCH marks start of cancer center construction with demolition of former laundry facility
PRINCETON, W.Va. — WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital (PCH) took an important step forward in improving cancer care in the Two Virginias region with the demolition of its former laundry facility. This milestone officially begins the next phase of its Comprehensive Cancer Center project.
Hospital leaders, staff, and community partners gathered for the event, which honored the history of the laundry facility while celebrating the future of advanced, patient-centered cancer care in the region.
“This moment represents both reflection and transformation,” said Karen Bowling, MSN, RN, president and CEO of PCH. “For decades, this facility supported patient care in important ways. Today, we honor that legacy as we begin building something new—a cancer center that will change the future of care for our region.”
Built in the 1990s, the laundry facility was once a state-of-the-art operation, processing thousands of pounds of linen each hour through an automated system. More importantly, it was powered by a dedicated team whose work supported patient comfort, dignity, and safety every day.
During the ceremony, Bowling recognized past leaders and staff, including Marvin McClanahan and Wilma Wade, who led the department with pride and dedication.
The demolition marks the first visible step in building PCH’s new comprehensive cancer center—a $35 million, approximately 45,500-square-foot facility designed to bring advanced cancer care closer to home.
Once complete, the center will offer a full range of services, including medical oncology, infusion therapy, advanced imaging, and radiation therapy, all in one location. The facility will feature modern technology to help detect cancer earlier, improve diagnosis, and deliver more targeted treatment.
“This is about more than a building,” Bowling said. “It’s about creating a place of hope—where patients can receive life-saving care close to home, and where the future of cancer care in our region begins.”
Construction of the cancer center is expected to be completed in 2027.
About WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital
WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital is leading healthcare in the two Virginias. With 420 physicians and mid-level providers, PCH operates a fully accredited 203-bed acute care medical facility, a 64-bed psychiatric hospital, and an emergency room and outpatient services facility in Bluefield. PCH operates seven primary care clinics, 11 specialty clinics, and three rural imaging clinics offering a wide range of care to a 10-county region.
WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital is leading healthcare in the two Virginias. With 420 physicians and mid-level providers, PCH operates a fully accredited 203-bed acute care medical facility, a 64-bed psychiatric hospital, and an emergency room and outpatient services facility in Bluefield. PCH operates seven primary care clinics, 11 specialty clinics, and three rural imaging clinics offering a wide range of care to a 10-county region.