The University of California Regents have given the green light for the construction of a new medical education building at UC Merced. The approval, which came during their November 15 meeting, encompasses the final design, environmental impact findings, and the complete budget and financing plan.

The $300 million project, designed by ZGF, will be a four-story structure spanning 203,500 square feet. It will house instructional spaces, academic offices, research facilities, community areas, and common spaces. The funding for the project will come from state General Fund appropriations, the campus budget, and donations.

UC Merced Chancellor Juan Sánchez Muñoz expressed his gratitude for the Regents’ support, highlighting the building’s potential to address the region’s healthcare needs. The new facility will host UC Merced’s medical education pathway, developed in collaboration with UCSF and UCSF Fresno, and will also accommodate various health-related departments and programs.

The building will adhere to the University of California Sustainable Practices Policy, ensuring it meets green building, clean energy, and zero waste goals, among others. The facility will operate entirely on clean electricity, supporting UC Merced’s carbon neutrality status.

Construction is set to commence in spring 2024 and is expected to be completed by fall 2026. The facility is projected to serve around 2,220 undergraduates by 2030.

Read more at UC Merced News.