University City Science Center plans expansion that will double its size

The country’s oldest and largest urban research park is about to get even bigger.

University City Science Center has announced plans to double in size over the next decade, adding 4 million square feet of office and laboratory space, as well as residential and retail facilities. The 52-year-old Science Center is partnering with developer Wexford Science & Technology, which has helped complete three previous buildings.

“I hope that what happens as a result of this is that we have more options for some premiere corporate residents to come to University City and really connect with the great institutions who are already here to collaborate on innovations that can truly change people’s lives over time,” said Stephen Tang, president and CEO of the Science Center.

The move is part of a wider plan to make the neighborhood a global hub for science and technology, Tang said. The new properties will be 3400, 3800 and 3850 Market Street, as well as the University City High School site.

“I think this partnership is a result of the great success of the Science Center, but also our surrounding neighbors — UPenn, Drexel University, and the Children’s Hospital of Pennsylvania — in fostering an environment for innovation and entrepreneurship,” he said.