The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) is entering a new era of transformation with multiple large-scale construction projects now underway — including the largest capital improvement project in university history. Designed to support academic innovation, student success and community engagement, the developments span healthcare, performing arts and student services.
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At the corner of 25th and Charlotte streets, UMKC is building the 160,000-square-foot Healthcare Delivery and Innovation Building (HDIB) — a state-of-the-art hub for education, clinical research and interdisciplinary medical collaboration.
On September 17, UMKC marked a major milestone as the final beam was placed on the structure. “The university celebrated this construction milestone by inviting elected officials, university leadership and students, faculty and staff to sign the beam before it was placed in the new building.” The facility is scheduled to open in 2027.
To accommodate construction, the surface lot at 25th and Charlotte has closed. Students and staff are now directed to Hospital Hill Parking Garage 28 or surface lot 67, while clinic patients and Health Sciences visitors have relocated to surface lot 68. “UMKC IDs are required to scan in and out of the parking garage,” the university noted.
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In May 2025, renovations began at the Atterbury Student Success Center, which will soon serve as UMKC’s central hub for admissions, advising, transfer support, adult learners, career services and more. Completion is expected in 2026.
The redesign includes a two-story welcome atrium, expanded Career Services programming and even a dedicated Professional Wardrobe Studio where students can prepare for interviews. Meanwhile, the second floor of the library has now been permanently designated as the silent study floor.
Two key services — UMKC Central and the Financial Wellness Center — will also relocate from the Administrative Center to the newly renovated space.
Looking ahead to 2026, UMKC plans to break ground on a 35,000-square-foot addition to the Conservatory’s Olson Performing Arts Center, further positioning the campus as a regional arts destination.
The first phase — estimated at $35 million — will include:
This addition will complement existing venues such as White Recital Hall, Spencer Theatre and McIlrath Lobby, effectively creating a connected “theatre district.”
A second phase will renovate existing Conservatory facilities, expanding classroom and collaboration areas and making event spaces more flexible for performances and community programming.
Originally reported by UMKC Today.
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