WICHITA —The University of Kansas, Wichita State University and WSU Tech are moving forward with plans to build an approximately 470,000‑square‑foot, $300 million shared biomedical campus in the heart of downtown Wichita, according to the Wichita State University web site.
The biomedical campus proposes the creation of a centrally located corridor where health care services, education, research and technology can be established near existing private hospitals and health care providers. That proximity will create efficiencies, strengthen collaboration, and support interprofessional health care learning, while forwarding opportunities for partnerships in new and emerging research fields.
- A large biomedical campus in a metropolitan area near private hospitals and health care providers will provide opportunities for partnerships in new and emerging research fields.
- Wichita State, WSU Tech and KU have several strong health science and biomedical programs with proven track records for success. Pooling the collective resources and successes of our institutions on one campus will bring about remarkable opportunities for collaboration, innovation and research.
- Initially, about 3,000 students and 200 faculty and staff will be housed at the center with opportunities for growth in existing and new programs. Prioritizing biomedical and health care education in Wichita will send a message to our community and our businesses that we care about our community’s health and are willing to invest in it. The Kansas Legislature has already committed to investing $35 million the project. More investment in health care means more people will be attracted to and stay in Wichita.
- Mental health is paramount to our community, and the Wichita Biomedical Campus will be key to addressing the demand for counselors and therapists in the region.
- The approximately 470,000-square-foot facility will house shared spaces for advanced laboratories, clinical research and technology. The high-tech facility will draw students, educators and researchers from around the country — attracting talent and resources to the Wichita area and boosting the economic success of Kansas.