© 2026 WUKY
background_fid.jpg
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

UK marks major milestone for cancer and ambulatory care

The Topping Out of the new UK Cancer and Advanced Ambulatory Building on July 16, 2026. Photo by Carter Sloss | UKphoto
Carter Sloss | UKphoto/Carter Sloss | UKphoto
The Topping Out of the new UK Cancer and Advanced Ambulatory Building on July 16, 2026. Photo by Carter Sloss | UKphoto

The University of Kentucky marked a major construction milestone Thursday for its new Cancer and Advanced Ambulatory Building with a ceremonial "topping out" to celebrate the placement of the final steel beam.

The 550,000-square-foot facility will become the new home of the UK Markey Cancer Center, Kentucky's only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, along with a new spine center, outpatient surgery suites, and expanded specialty care.

University leaders say the project will help meet the growing demand for cancer care. Outpatient visits at Markey have increased 57% over the past decade, and the new building will bring cancer services currently spread across six campus locations under one roof.

The facility will also expand access to clinical trials, precision medicine, and cellular therapy, while adding imaging, pharmacy, rehabilitation, and other patient support services.

The building is expected to open in 2028 on South Limestone across from UK Albert B. Chandler Hospital. Construction is funded by UK HealthCare, with state and private support for Markey Cancer Center programs.