University Expands Discovery Partners Institute Downtown

The University of Illinois board approved a $23.7 million purchase of 250 S. Wacker Drive in February to expand the Discovery Partners Institute, with planned renovations estimated at $36.2 million. DPI, which focuses on artificial intelligence, quantum technologies and future computing, will relocate from leased space and seek partner contributions; the move follows the university's October 2024 cancellation of a $300 million campus at The 78, which cost the state over $30 million.