WALB’s Quinlan Parker will have further coverage of this story in our digital-only newscast “What’s Going On.” Tune in LIVE at 11 a.m. using the player above. LEE COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) — The Lee County Development Authority took a major step forward, confirming it is in the final stages of financing for a new medical center. Officials said they expect to break ground on the highly anticipated facility in the first quarter of 2027. Local leaders said the new medical center will not only directly serve the local community but also act as a key healthcare partner to all existing medical providers in the region. This milestone comes after a decade of significant roadblocks. First introduced in June 2016, the project faced years of delays, primarily due to Georgia’s strict Certificate of Need (CON) healthcare permit rules, legal contests from regional healthcare competitors and the initial lack of an operator. The momentum shifted in early 2024 when state lawmakers loosened healthcare licensing regulations, and local boards officially voted to revive the development. With financing now nearing completion, county leaders said they are closer than ever to turning the long-awaited project into a reality. Have a news tip or see an error that needs correction? Let us know. Please include the article’s headline in your message. To stay up to date on all the latest news as it develops, follow WALB on Facebook, Instagram and X. For more South Georgia news, download the WALB News app and add…
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