Chicago Construction News staff writer
Construction has started on a new health science building on the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville campus. The $105 million building will provide groundbreaking educational opportunities in a state-of-the-art facility.
Construction, which is set to be completed by summer 2025, will connect two existing facilities into one structure, bringing together the School of Nursing and the School of Pharmacy. Funding is coming from the bipartisan Rebuild Illinois Capital program, the largest capital plan in the State’s history.
“As we make college tuition more affordable for students, we are also investing in university facilities — ensuring these engines of success for local economies are running at their best,” Gov. JB Pritzker said in a statement. “With today’s groundbreaking at SIUE, we usher in a new era for Southern Illinois and its world class university — with greater access to quality education and first-rate healthcare. Together, we are building a more prosperous future for the students, faculty and families of this region.”
The 115,000 sq. ft. structure will accommodate new classrooms, research laboratories, teaching laboratories, study areas, a nursing simulation laboratory, and administrative offices. Additionally, the scope of work provides for the resurfacing of two existing parking lots, connecting sidewalks, and improving site circulation around the complex.
“This groundbreaking is the culmination of an enormous commitment by so many, however it is important to recognize two important groups who are making this day possible,” said SIUE president, Dan Mahony. “First, our university leadership and our students who are committed to the programs that will be housed in this building that will produce the next generation of leaders in various fields of health care professions like nursing and pharmacy that will train here.
“And second our elected officials, including Governor Pritzker and members of the General Assembly, especially our SIUE legislative delegation, who worked cooperatively to provide a tremendous investment in this institution. We cannot say thank you enough.”
The Illinois Capital Development Board (CDB) will oversee the design and construction in accordance with the protocol for state-appropriated projects.
“The new health science building will create opportunities for students and faculty, providing access to state-of-the-art research and teaching,” said Capital Development Board executive director Jim Underwood. “We are proud to collaborate on this exciting new project.”
