Construction of Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine at Jacksonville University ceremonially began March 26 at the JU Medical Mall north of the main campus in Arlington.
“LECOM at Jacksonville University, anchored within our expanding Medical Mall, will transform the north end of our campus into a hub for health care innovation. We are proud to play a pivotal role in bringing a four-year medical school to Jacksonville and positioning our community at the forefront of health care innovation and education,” said JU President Tim Cost.
“LECOM has always been dedicated to advancing medical education and the opening of our new campus in Jacksonville is a pivotal moment for the region’s health care future,” said Dr. John Ferretti, president and CEO of LECOM. “This facility will not only train the next generation of physicians but also strengthen the health care workforce in Northeast Florida, improving access to quality care and addressing the region’s growing medical needs.”
The partnership was announced in November 2022. LECOM is investing $50 million to build and operate a four-year medical school on 9.87 acres along Dolphin Pointe Boulevard it purchased March 21 for $5.22 million.
Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan said the facility will have an impact on education and the local economy.
“We are honored that LECOM chose to invest $50 million in Jacksonville. This medical school will generate 600 jobs and a $60 million a year local economic impact by 2030. This is a great day for JU, LECOM, Arlington and our city as a whole,” Deegan said.
The first cohort of 75 students is scheduled to begin classes in July 2026. LECOM plans to increase enrollment to 150 students each year over the following five years.
LECOM says it is the nation’s largest medical college and osteopathic academic health system, producing more primary care physicians than any other U.S. medical school.