<p>Shepherd Center, a hospital specializing in spinal cord injuries and diseases affecting the central nervous system, is planning a $48 million expansion.</p><p>The project, the latest in a number of Atlanta hospital expansions, will increase the number of beds at Shepherd from 100 to 120 and eliminate four-bed wards. It also will reduce the number of two-bed rooms, consolidate outpatient facilities and create more office space.</p><p>About 85 percent of Georgians who get a spinal injury come here, said Gary Ulicny, president and chief executive of the nonprofit hospital. He said Shepherds beds now are constantly full, and the hospital has had to turn away more than 200 patients over the past 18 months.</p><p>Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta has a $344 million expansion proposal, and WellStar Kennestone Hospital in Marietta has a $93 million plan.</p><p>Shepherd Center officials said the two-year construction project is expected to begin in June.</p><p>___</p><p>Information from: Constitution</p>
