The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) is looking to build an $85 million orthopedic and sports medicine facility in NWA, pending approval at the University of Arkansas System board of trustees meeting today.

• The state-of-the-art facility will boast up to 12 operating rooms, yet a limited number of patient beds. The building’s specialty clinics will consist of sports performance, physical therapy, orthopedic, imaging, research and education.

• It's said that UAMS Chancellor Dr. Cam Patterson will propose Marlon Blackwell Architects along with DSC Architects to lead the 185,000-square-foot building design. Nabholz Construction is the front-runner for general contractor.

• UAMS will employ bond funds to pay for the project, according to the agenda. The board authorized UAMS to negotiate letter of intent terms to pursue a lease agreement for a new building in October. As part of the negotiation, UAMS would have the option to assume the outstanding debt at a mutually agreeable date or purchase the facility for $1 at the end of a 30-year lease term. Talk Business & Politics

• Additionally, "Patterson will also ask for board approval to expand the Northwest Arkansas regional campus by adding a three-year MD degree primary care track and a four-year MD parallel track beginning in the 2021-22 academic year." Talk Business & Politics

To learn more, you can read the full report HERE