UT Regents Explore New Location for Future Medical Campus

The University of Texas Board of Regents is reevaluating the location for the future UT Austin academic medical campus, which is intended to include a facility for the renowned MD Anderson Cancer Center. Initially, plans were set to replace the demolished Frank Erwin Center with the new development located off Interstate 35 in downtown Austin. However, discussions at a recent board meeting have introduced a potential new site.

During the meeting, Kevin Eltife, chairman of the Board of Regents, characterized the medical campus project as “one of the biggest projects of this generation.” He emphasized the ambition of the project by stating, “We’re not just building an integrated academic medical center; we’re building a district for the future. For that reason, we’re looking at a larger site.”

The board is considering an undeveloped property owned by the University of Texas, situated north of the main campus and in proximity to the Domain, a vibrant mixed-use development. Eltife mentioned that there has been extensive dialogue regarding the project with Jim Davis, president of UT Austin, and Peter Pisters, president of MD Anderson Cancer Center. A design team has been tasked with assessing the North Austin site to determine its viability for the ambitious project. Despite this potential shift, the original Erwin Center site remains an option.

The timeline for the project remains on track, with construction scheduled to commence in 2026. The completed medical center is expected to open its doors by 2030. According to university representatives, this new facility aims to enhance healthcare delivery and academic research, positioning UT Austin as a leader in medical innovation.

As discussions continue, the Board of Regents is focused on ensuring that the selected site will meet the future needs of both the university and the surrounding community. The decision on the final location will significantly influence the project’s scope and its long-term impact on healthcare and education in Texas.