← Latest briefing

US News

Tulane University plans $500 million redevelopment of historic Charity Hospital building

The long-vacant New Orleans landmark, closed since Hurricane Katrina in 2005, will be transformed into a biomedical research facility.

The short version

  • Tulane University is leading a $500 million project to convert New Orleans' historic Charity Hospital building into a biomedical research hub.
  • The art deco facility has remained vacant for over 20 years after suffering severe damage during Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
  • Construction is expected to begin this fall, with project completion targeted for 2029.

Key facts

  • Tulane University announced a $500 million initiative to redevelop the million-square-foot former Charity Hospital building into a medical innovation and research facility.[ABC News · ABC News · Associated Press]
  • Construction work is scheduled to start in the fall, with final completion expected in 2029.[ABC News · ABC News · Associated Press]
  • The 1930s-era art deco building has been shuttered since 2005, when Hurricane Katrina flooded the city and cut off power to the facility.[ABC News · ABC News · Associated Press]
  • The revamped complex will feature research laboratories, public health and medical program spaces, classrooms, and offices for biomedical startups.[ABC News · ABC News · Associated Press]
  • Louisiana State University previously determined the building was too damaged by Katrina to reopen and utilized federal disaster aid to build a new hospital, a decision disputed by some former staff and community members.[ABC News · ABC News · Associated Press]

Sources