The 160,000-square-foot Healthcare Delivery and Innovation Building remains the largest capital improvement project in UMKC history. | Photo Credit (all): UMKC
By Lindsey Coulter
The University of Missouri–Kansas City continues advancing several major construction and renovation projects across campus, with work underway on academic, student-support and administrative facilities tied to the university’s strategic goals.
Current projects include the Healthcare Delivery and Innovation Building at 25th and Charlotte streets and renovations to the Atterbury Student Success Center. Additional projects expected to begin construction this year include the expansion of the Conservatory’s Olson Performing Arts Center and renovations to the UMKC Administrative Center.
Healthcare Delivery and Innovation Building
The 160,000-square-foot Healthcare Delivery and Innovation Building remains the largest capital improvement project in UMKC history.
According to the university, the project reached a major milestone Sept. 17 when crews placed the final structural beam after a signing ceremony involving elected officials, university leadership, students, faculty and staff.
Construction crews are continuing interior and exterior work throughout the facility. Interior wall framing is progressing, while drywall installation, piping insulation and overhead mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire-protection systems continue advancing. Exterior work includes completion of penthouse metal panels, curtain wall installation, roofing and remaining fire-hydrant connections.
The building is expected to open in 2027.
Atterbury Student Success Center
Renovations at the Atterbury Student Success Center began in May 2025 and are expected to conclude in summer 2026.
The university reported that walls and ceilings are nearly fully installed, while carpet installation, painting and finish work are underway. Construction at the building’s north entry is expected to continue into the first part of summer.
Once complete, the renovated facility will house Admissions, the UMKC School of Graduate Studies, the Center for Transfer Students and Adult Learners, Roo Advising, Career Services, University College and International Student Affairs. Plans also include a Welcome Center with a two-story atrium intended to host prospective students and their families.
Career Services programming will also expand to include a Professional Wardrobe Studio, providing students with access to professional clothing options and interview headshots. UMKC Central and the Financial Wellness Center will relocate from the Administrative Center into the renovated building as part of the project.
Olson Performing Arts Center Expansion
UMKC Chancellor Mauli Agrawal announced during the 2025 State of the University that the Olson Performing Arts Center expansion is expected to break ground in 2026.
The 35,000-square-foot addition will add performance and rehearsal spaces on the east side of the building extending toward Volker Boulevard.
University officials said the project will increase performance, classroom and collaboration opportunities for students and the Kansas City community. The first phase of construction is estimated at $35 million and includes a large music ensemble performance and rehearsal space, two dance rehearsal rooms, support space for the dance program and a new accessible black box performance venue.
According to the university, the black box addition will help create a “theatre district” alongside White Recital Hall, Spencer Theatre and the McIlrath Lobby.
The second phase will renovate existing facilities, including White Recital Hall, to create additional classroom and theatre space as well as expanded student collaboration areas.
UMKC Administrative Center Renovation
Renovations to the UMKC Administrative Center are expected to begin in late spring and conclude in winter 2027.
The project will focus on the building’s front exterior and first floor, including accessibility improvements such as removing stairs in the entryway and lobby and adding accessible parking spaces.
Interior renovations include a refreshed lobby and new reception desk. As part of the changes, UMKC Central will relocate to the Atterbury Student Success Center, while its former Administrative Center space will become an alumni reception area and office suite for the UMKC Foundation.