31
October
2017
|
05:13 AM
America/New_York

Ohio State proposes new facility to support academic mission

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio State University will seek initial approvals from the Board of Trustees for an optometry clinic and health sciences faculty office located at 11th and Neil avenues.

The project will be the first step in potential future work on a broader interdisciplinary health sciences center, aligned with Ohio State’s strategic plan and identified in Framework 2.0, the university’s long-term planning vision. In April, the university approved a programing study for the health sciences center, envisioning upgraded and flexible facilities to create a collaborative campus for interprofessional education throughout the health sciences disciplines.

“The proposed work outlined in Framework 2.0 continues to align with the university’s strategic focus, including the areas of research, academic health care and the arts,” said Keith Myers, Ohio State’s vice president of planning and real estate.

The 11th and Neil project would prompt the relocation of three businesses: Adriatico’s, a branch of Huntington Bank and the University Flower Shop.

“We are excited for this new opportunity and a chance to finally expand our business,” said Greg Fortney, owner of Adriatico’s. “During our 30-plus years, we’ve become part of the fabric of the university community and we look forward to continuing to serve our customers for many years to come.”

Ohio State is working closely with each business to identify possible relocation opportunities.

“The University Flower Shop has been helping turn moments into memories in the campus area since 1932,” said owner Christine Spangle. “We look forward to growing with the university and the hospital community in their newest ventures.”

The university will request $600,000 toward professional services for the project at 11th and Neil. Overall, the $28 million project would include approximately 93,000 square feet and feature a clinic operated by the College of Optometry, as well as an eyewear gallery, retail space, faculty offices and support space.

Construction is anticipated for late fall 2018, pending additional Board of Trustees approval.