Central Health Announces Preferred Master Developer for Brackenridge Campus Redevelopment

(Austin, TX.) — The Central Health Board of Managers voted Wednesday to allow staff to begin negotiations with a master developer for the Brackenridge Campus redevelopment, former home of University Medical Center Brackenridge (UMCB).

Following an intensive review process, the Central Health procurement committee unanimously selected Wexford Science & Technology, LLC, of Baltimore, MD, one of two firms that responded to Central Health’s Request for Proposals. Brandywine Realty Trust was the second firm.

“Selecting a preferred master developer is an important first step to move this project forward,” said Mike Geeslin, President & CEO of Central Health. “We look forward to starting this process and keeping the board and community apprised of our progress.”

Central Health owns the 14-acre Brackenridge Campus, that since 1889 had been home to the community’s safety net hospital. Seton Healthcare Family, which operated UMCB, moved hospital operations across the street in May to a brand-new hospital – Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas. This move cleared the way for the redevelopment of the historic campus – six contiguous blocks located at 15th Street and Interstate 35.

Next Steps

While Central Health begins negotiations with Wexford Science & Technology, demolition of the former hospital tower is still six months to a year away. It will be at least two to three years before construction begins on the property.