South Suburban College (SSC) has officially broken ground on a major expansion project: the $52 million Allied Health & Nursing Center. This four-story, 70,000-square-foot addition represents more than 15 years of planning and collaboration and is aimed at strengthening healthcare education and workforce development across the region. Funded through a state Capital Development Grant with the support of Governor JB Pritzker, the facility is scheduled to open in 2027.
Project Overview
The new Allied Health & Nursing Center will serve as a cornerstone for expanding educational opportunities in nursing, medical technology, and allied health. It will significantly increase SSC’s capacity to address the region’s critical shortage of healthcare professionals. Governor Pritzker highlighted the importance of the project, stating that graduates will help meet the growing demand for skilled nurses, medical technicians, and allied health specialists throughout Illinois.
Design and Construction Features
Chicago Construction News reports that the building is being designed by The Architects Enterprise, Ltd. as the prime architect, with Wight & Company as the associate architect. Notable design and construction details include:
-
Steel-framed structure with shear walls at stairwells and elevators for stability.
-
Curving glass stair tower at the northwest corner, creating a distinctive design feature.
-
Curtain walls with integrated sunshades along the curved façade to maximize natural light while reducing glare.
-
Masonry and stacked curtain walls defining the orthogonal elevations for durability and aesthetic appeal.
-
One-story extension connecting the new center with the existing campus buildings, including renovations to reconcile elevation differences.
The Illinois Capital Development Board is overseeing construction, ensuring compliance with state requirements and efficient delivery of the project.
Educational Programs and Amenities
The 130,000-square-foot facility will accommodate a range of healthcare programs, providing space for both new and existing offerings. Key programs include:
-
Nursing
-
Radiology
-
Occupational therapy
-
Pharmacy technician training
-
Medical transcription
-
Phlebotomy
To support these programs, the building will feature:
-
Modern classrooms designed for collaborative learning.
-
Advanced simulation labs that replicate real-world healthcare environments.
-
Collaborative learning spaces to foster teamwork and skill development.
-
Flexible multipurpose rooms for community and student use.
Community Impact and Workforce Development
The Allied Health & Nursing Center is more than just a campus expansion—it represents a vital investment in the local and regional workforce. The facility will serve as a hub for partnerships with local hospitals, clinics, and care providers. These collaborations will provide students with valuable clinical experience while supplying the healthcare industry with a steady pipeline of skilled workers.
Governor Pritzker emphasized that the center is part of a broader vision for Illinois community colleges to act as engines of both economic and educational opportunity. By addressing shortages in healthcare staffing, SSC’s expansion will help improve patient care and support the state’s healthcare system.
Trades and Workforce Needed for Construction
Building the new Allied Health & Nursing Center will require a diverse range of construction trades and professionals, including:
-
General contractors and project managers
-
Steelworkers for framing
-
Masons for exterior walls
-
Glaziers for curtain wall installation
-
Electricians for power and systems
-
HVAC specialists for climate control
-
Plumbers and pipefitters for water and medical gas systems
-
Interior finishers and carpenters for classrooms and labs
-
Technology integrators for simulation labs and collaborative spaces
Conclusion
The groundbreaking of the Allied Health & Nursing Center marks a historic moment for South Suburban College and the surrounding region. With its modern design, advanced facilities, and focus on workforce development, the project stands as a testament to the role of community colleges in shaping the future. When complete in 2027, SSC’s new facility will not only transform its campus but also play a pivotal role in training the healthcare professionals who will serve communities across Illinois.
