Innovation Campus Grand Avenue Officially Underway

President Albrecht, along with university, local and state officials was pleased to throw some dirt around to announce the beginning of construction on Innovation Campus’ Grand Avenue.

“This is a great day for Utah State,” said President Albrecht. “With this new phase at Innovation Campus we will be able to continue to expand USU’s contribution to the state and local economic development. The campus will provide great opportunities for faculty and students as well as for new business and technology transfer opportunities. I appreciate the visionaries, who 20 years ago, foresaw the potential of this research park.”

In January, the university received a $2.5 million dollar grant from the Economic Development Administration of the U.S. Department of Commerce to further develop Innovation Campus along the Grand Avenue at approximately 1600 North and between 600 and 800 East in North Logan.

Over the next 20 years, the new buildings could accommodate up to 5,000 to 8,000 jobs, with an increase in total building space growing from the current 450,000 square feet to approximately 4,250,000 square feet.

“Economic development is one of the legislature’s top priorities,” said Fred Hunsaker, former Vice President for Administrative Services with Utah State and current Utah legislator. “We need more space at our research universities and this space at Innovation Campus will provide great opportunities. The best is yet come.”

With the funding in place, Innovation Campus Director Mike Brooks said the research campus can implement building plans on Grand Avenue. Innovation Campus is home to more than 50 research and development companies, USU department units and government agencies.

“The Grand Avenue will be a beautiful gateway that connects the current campus to the new expansion,” said Teresa McKnight, manager of Innovation Campus.

For more information on USU’s Innovation Campus, visit the Web site.