UT Regents Explore New Location for Future Medical Campus

The University of Texas Board of Regents is evaluating an alternative site for the future academic medical campus in Austin, which will include a location for the esteemed MD Anderson Cancer Center and a new university medical tower. This development was initially planned for the site of the former Frank Erwin Center, which was demolished in 2024.

During a recent board meeting, 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 vision behind the initiative, 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 now considering a UT-owned property located north of the main campus, in proximity to the Domain shopping area. Eltife mentioned that there has been extensive discussion regarding this potential change with Jim Davis, President of UT Austin, and Peter Pisters, President of MD Anderson Cancer Center. A design team will evaluate whether this North Austin site is a more suitable option for the project. Importantly, the original plan for the Erwin Center site remains under consideration.

Despite the proposed site change, a representative from the university confirmed that the project timeline remains unchanged. Construction is still anticipated to commence in 2026, with the campus projected to open by 2030.

This significant endeavor aims to enhance healthcare and research capabilities in the region, fostering collaboration and innovation in medical education and patient care. As the planning process continues, the University of Texas Board of Regents and associated leaders will weigh the benefits of both locations to ensure the success of this landmark project.