UChicago Medicine Builds AbbVie Foundation Cancer Pavilion

University of Chicago Medicine is constructing the AbbVie Foundation Cancer Pavilion to catalyze high-impact research programs and reimagine the spectrum of patient care. CannonDesign is partnering with Yazdani Studio and Blue Cottage on the $815 million project, which will be the first freestanding structure in Illinois dedicated solely to cancer treatment and research. Teams of clinicians, investigators, and physician-scientists will come together to optimize patient outcomes. As well as addressing regional health disparities, the 575,000-sf facility will foster a culture of immersive collaboration within the academic health system and ensure adaptability to future changes in technology and service delivery models.

The building will provide 80 inpatient beds, including 64 medical-surgical and 16 ICU beds, and 90 rooms for outpatient exams and consultations. An urgent care hub with enhanced biosafety protocols will enable immunocompromised patients to be rapidly assessed and treated while minimizing exposure to potential germs. With private infusion bays grouped by cancer type, the pavilion will also include imaging suites, a prevention and education center, and a dedicated area for clinical trials. The ground floor will serve as a gathering zone for both the University of Chicago campus and the greater Hyde Park community. 

Standing eight stories above grade, the structure will leverage robust vibration and interference mitigation solutions to protect sensitive MRI instrumentation. A basement level with advanced shielding will accommodate linear accelerator equipment (LINAC) in the future. Targeting LEED Gold, the sustainable development will include four floors of shell space to accommodate growth and flexibility. Elevated pedestrian bridges will connect to the parking garage and existing Center for Care and Discovery.

The project team includes Affiliated Engineers as MEP engineer, RTM Engineering as MEP/FP engineer, and Thornton Tomasetti as structural and construction engineer. Turner Construction broke ground on the facility in September of 2023 and occupancy is anticipated in 2027.