Exciting New LSU Health Facility Set to Transform Shreveport’s Research Landscape and Mall St. Vincent

Exciting Changes Coming to Shreveport with New LSU Health Facility!

Shreveport, Louisiana, is buzzing with excitement as the LSU Health Shreveport Foundation has just made a significant investment in the community. In a recent move, they purchased the vacant space left by Sears at Mall St. Vincent for a whopping $3.5 million. This decision is not just about filling a space; it’s about aiming for some truly important research initiatives!

An Open Concept Space for Big Ideas

With a generous 160,000 square feet at their disposal, LSU Health has plans to turn this former department store into a thriving hub for research. Chancellor David Guzick notes that the open concept layout was perfect for their vision. “Even before we walked in, we knew it was perfect,” he shared. The proximity to their campus, just a mile and a half away, makes it an ideal location.

Expanding the Research Team

This project isn’t just about a new building; it also means more jobs and more contributions to the local economy! LSU plans to hire 40 new researchers, each managing a team of about six people. That means we’re looking at nearly 250 new positions that could be coming together in this state-of-the-art facility!

Focus Areas: Cardiovascular, Cancer, and Addiction Research

What will these researchers be focusing on, you ask? LSU aims to ramp up efforts in critical areas such as cardiovascular research, cancer research, and addiction research. Dr. Oren Rom, the associate dean for basic and translational research at LSU Health Shreveport, expressed his excitement, saying, “We are doing really great in our current facility, but we are growing a lot, specifically in the area of cardiovascular research and microbiology research. We are trying to really increase our impact on cancer research as well.”

Revitalization Efforts for Mall St. Vincent

But that’s not all! This acquisition is expected to breathe new life into the struggling Mall St. Vincent. In addition to the building, LSU Health has also secured extra parking and ownership of the corridor leading to the mall’s atrium, which opens up even more possibilities. Although there are current tenants, Guzick is eager about attracting more businesses, hoping to revive the mall and create a vibrant atmosphere.

Looking Ahead

Exciting architectural renderings are expected to be unveiled in January 2024, giving the community a sneak peek into what’s to come. The goal is to have the facility up and running within the next two years, which is sure to create a buzz of anticipation in Shreveport!

The arrival of LSU Health at Mall St. Vincent isn’t just a win for the institution; it’s a positive step for the community, bringing in jobs, research advancements, and hopefully, a revitalized shopping experience at the mall. With the focus on important research areas and community enrichment, Shreveport residents have a lot to look forward to!