Exciting Developments for Shreveport: A New Research Hub is on the Horizon
Shreveport is buzzing with exciting news! The former Sears property at Mall St. Vincent is about to undergo a fantastic transformation. LSU Health Shreveport has announced plans to convert this space into a state-of-the-art research facility that promises to elevate local research endeavors and attract more top talent to our city.
Why the Change?
As many know, the demand for research space has skyrocketed in recent years. LSU Health Shreveport has seen a significant leap in externally funded research, and it’s crucial to keep pace with this growth. The institution has partnered with the LSU Health Sciences Foundation, who purchased the former Sears property, to ensure they have the necessary space to retain current researchers and bring in new ones.
Timely and Necessary Expansion
Currently, the lab and office spaces in the Biomedical Research Institute and medical school are expected to reach full capacity within the next 18 to 24 months. With projections indicating a surge of new grants from the National Institutes of Health, it’s evident that this expansion couldn’t come at a better time. The facility at the Mall St. Vincent could house new labs, faculty offices, and even educational and conference rooms, all under one roof!
Reimagining Space for the Future
Utilizing the existing structure of the former Sears store rather than constructing a brand new building brings many advantages. For one, the expedited construction timeline means they can get the new facility up and running faster, which is great news for researchers waiting for space to work their magic.
Moreover, the facility boasts about 160,000 square feet of interior space on 18 acres, complete with over 800 parking spaces. It’s less than a mile from the main LSU Health Shreveport campus, making it easily accessible for researchers and staff. Plus, this new hub will not only elevate the visibility of LSU Health Shreveport on the busy I-49 corridor but also bring much-needed activity back to the St. Vincent Mall, improving safety for all shoppers and tenants.
Supporting the Community and Economy
Chancellor David Guzick expressed his excitement about this future expansion, noting it will help position LSU Health Shreveport as a more competitive force for attracting top researchers. “My optimism regarding the future of LSU Health Shreveport is increasing exponentially with this future research expansion,” he said. The building will be funded entirely through private donations and will not require any state funds.
Furthermore, Guzick highlighted that the influx of external funding into Shreveport will likely spur further economic development in the area. This is not just a win for LSU Health Shreveport but for our entire community.
What’s Next?
The LSU Health Sciences Foundation will spearhead a fundraising campaign to gather the necessary financial support for this ambitious project. The community can expect further updates on how they can contribute and engage with this exciting endeavor.
In summary, Shreveport is on the brink of a new chapter with the transformation of the former Sears site into a cutting-edge research facility. Not only will this enhance our local research capabilities, but it also has the potential to beautify and revitalize the surrounding area. We can’t wait to see how this project unfolds and what it means for the future of research in our beloved city!
