The University of Illinois board today delayed approval of an early step in the expansion of the UIC Medical Center.

The proposed $427 million project includes renovations of the existing hospital and construction of a new nine story building.

Some board members say they want to make sure the project plan is flexible enough to change if full funding doesn’t come through.

Trustee Devon Bruce of Chicago says he doesn’t think the delay will make a big difference in the project’s timeline.

Hospital staff plan to meet with some trustees next week to address their concerns.

Current plans call for construction to be completed in December 2010.