UT Board of Regents Considers New Location for Medical Campus

The University of Texas Board of Regents is reevaluating the location for the upcoming UT Austin academic medical campus. Initially planned for the site of the former Frank Erwin Center in downtown Austin, discussions have shifted toward a larger, undeveloped property owned by the university to the north of the main campus. This decision reflects the board’s ambition to create a comprehensive medical district rather than just a single facility.

During a meeting on Thursday, Kevin Eltife, chairman of the UT Board of Regents, described the medical campus as “one of the biggest projects of this generation.” He emphasized the importance of finding a suitable site that aligns with the vision for the future of healthcare and education. “We’re not just building an integrated academic medical center; we’re building a district for the future,” Eltife stated.

A potential new site under consideration is located near the Domain, a well-known commercial area in Austin. Eltife noted that extensive discussions had taken place with Jim Davis, the president of UT Austin, and Peter Pisters, president of the MD Anderson Cancer Center. A design team will evaluate the proposed North Austin site to determine if it is a better fit for the ambitious project, while the Erwin Center location remains a viable option.

The timeline for the development appears unchanged, with construction expected to commence in 2026 and an anticipated opening by 2030. A representative from UT confirmed that the board is committed to maintaining the project’s schedule, regardless of the potential site change.

The new academic medical campus is set to include a location for the MD Anderson Cancer Center along with an additional university medical tower. This initiative aims to enhance medical education, research, and patient care in the region, building on the legacy of both UT Austin and MD Anderson.

As the discussions continue, the Board of Regents will weigh the benefits of each site, aiming for a decision that best serves the community and future healthcare needs. The outcome of this project could significantly impact medical services and educational opportunities in Austin and beyond.