The University of Texas Board of Regents is considering a change in location for the future academic medical campus at UT Austin. Initially planned for the site of the demolished Frank Erwin Center in downtown Austin, discussions are now focusing on a larger, undeveloped UT-owned property north of the main campus.
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 goal of creating not just an integrated academic medical center, but a comprehensive district that caters to future needs.
“We’re building a district for the future. For that reason, we’re looking at a larger site,” Eltife stated. The board is actively exploring the potential of the North Austin site, which is located near the Domain, a well-known mixed-use development area.
Discussions about the project have involved both Jim Davis, the president of UT Austin, and Peter Pisters, the president of MD Anderson Cancer Center. Eltife mentioned that a design team will evaluate the new location to determine if it “makes more sense” for the development. Despite the shift in focus, the original site of the Erwin Center remains under consideration.
According to a representative from the University of Texas, the timeline for the project has not changed. Construction is still anticipated to begin in 2026, with the campus expected to open by 2030. This project aims to enhance healthcare education and services in the region, reflecting a significant investment in the future of medical research and treatment.
With its ambitious scope and potential impact, the new academic medical campus at UT Austin is poised to play a vital role in the landscape of healthcare in Texas and beyond. As plans continue to evolve, stakeholders remain committed to ensuring that the final outcome aligns with the community’s needs and expectations.
