Groundbreaking for new 8 floor U.K. Markey Cancer Canter

LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — Construction is set to start on a new $781 million home for the University of Kentucky’s Markey Cancer Center.

The project builds on the center’s growing national recognition for research and patient care.

Kentucky is plagued by some of the nation’s worst cancer rates.

Officials gathered for an event to break ground on Thursday.

The building will consolidate the Markey Center’s services in the new UK Cancer and Advanced Ambulatory Building. The project is scheduled for completion in 2027.

Markey’s outpatient services are currently spread across six locations.

UK officials say the project will make things more convenient for patients and encourage collaboration between clinicians and researchers.