LSU Health Shreveport to Revitalize Former Sears Property into Cutting-Edge Research Facility

Exciting Development for Shreveport: LSU Health Shreveport to Transform Former Sears Property

Shreveport, LA – Big news is brewing in Shreveport! In a recent announcement, LSU Health Shreveport revealed plans to breathe new life into the former Sears property at Mall St. Vincent by transforming it into a state-of-the-art research facility. This move is not just about repurposing a well-known local landmark; it’s also an exciting response to the growing demand for research space. And let’s face it, who doesn’t love seeing a historic building come back to life?

A Bold Step Forward

With a significant uptick in externally funded research pouring in, LSU Health Shreveport realized that their current laboratories and office spaces at the Biomedical Research Institute and medical school were becoming a bit cramped. To address this challenge, the LSU Health Sciences Foundation, in partnership with LSUHS leadership, took a giant leap by acquiring this 160,000-square-foot property. It’s all about supporting the institution’s expansion, and people are definitely taking note!

Addressing the Community’s Needs

David Guzick, MD, PhD, Chancellor of LSU Health Shreveport, expressed his enthusiasm about the project by stating, “We are excited about the potential this project holds for the future of LSU Health Shreveport and the broader community.” And who can blame him? This new facility is expected to not only attract top-notch researchers, enhancing the local economy but also help bring a fresh sense of activity and energy to the Mall St. Vincent area.

Strategic Location and Advantages

One of the most appealing aspects of this new research facility is its prime location. Positioned less than a mile from the main LSU Health Shreveport campus, it offers a variety of advantages. The project enables an expedited construction timeline by reusing existing space—very eco-friendly, right? Plus, it gives LSU Health Shreveport greater visibility along the bustling I-49 corridor, bringing more attention to the institution’s valuable contributions to healthcare and research.

Boosting Research and Community

But that’s not all! This project aligns beautifully with LSU’s vision of becoming a top 50 research university system. It’s slated to elevate LSU Health Shreveport’s research profile, particularly in vital fields such as cancer and cardiovascular research. The facility is not just an expanded workspace; it’s a promising new chapter for health science endeavors in the community.

A Vision with No State Funding

Even more impressive is the funding strategy for this initiative. The project will be fully funded through a fundraising campaign led by the LSU Health Sciences Foundation, meaning no state funding is required. This approach showcases a deep commitment to not only the institution’s future but also the economic development of the region. It’s refreshing to see such dedication to community growth!

Future Prospects

As the new facility takes shape, it opens exciting possibilities for future clinical operations expansion at LSU Health Shreveport and their partnership with Ochsner. This melding of efforts is sure to enhance healthcare in the area, promising better options for patients and potentially leading to groundbreaking research discoveries.

Get Involved!

For those intrigued by this transformative project, the LSU Health Sciences Foundation is eager to share more information. Anyone interested can give them a call at 318-861-0855 or drop them an email at [email protected]. Keep your fingers crossed for all the great things to come!

This project is a fantastic step forward for Shreveport, bringing with it the promise of innovation, growth, and revitalization. It’s amazing how a little creative vision can turn a local landmark into a centerpiece of research and community engagement!