Austin moves to rezone 374 acres of UT-owned land near The Domain for life sciences and medical center use
February 14, 2026
- What: City officials are considering rezoning 374 acres of land owned by the University of Texas to allow life sciences development and a planned medical center.
- Who: The City of Austin and the University of Texas are the primary parties, with potential involvement from life sciences developers and health providers.
- Why it matters: If approved, the rezoning could enable construction of research facilities and a medical center, affecting jobs, development patterns, and services in North Austin near The Domain.
City officials in Austin are reviewing a proposal to change zoning on 374 acres of land owned by the University of Texas, located in North Austin near The Domain. The rezoning effort targets new uses tied to life sciences activity and a planned medical center, shifting the site’s potential development profile.
The acreage sits near a major employment and retail hub, and the rezoning request is framed around allowing research facilities, clinical space, and related support uses that current zoning does not readily permit. University land holdings are being repurposed through the process, as planners and stakeholders consider how the parcel could support health and research infrastructure.
The rezoning will move through the city’s review channels, where planning staff will examine the proposal and city decision-makers will weigh community input. Public hearings and formal votes are required before any zoning changes take effect, giving neighbors and interest groups opportunities to comment on scale, traffic, and land-use impacts.
Supporters of the change argue the site could attract biotech firms, medical services, and research partnerships that boost jobs and local investment. Nearby amenities and transit connections may make the location attractive for health-related development, though opponents could raise concerns about congestion, housing pressure, and neighborhood character.
If the city approves the rezoning, the University and potential partners would move forward with more detailed planning and development agreements. Exact project timelines, partners, and construction schedules will depend on subsequent approvals, financing arrangements, and any agreements between the university and private or health-sector entities.
City officials say they will provide updates as the rezoning request advances through review, and residents can expect notices about hearings and opportunities to weigh in. The outcome will shape how a significant tract of university-owned land is used near one of Austin’s fastest-growing commercial corridors.
Sources
- City of Austin planning documents
- University of Texas land office statement
- Rezoning application and public hearing notices