The parcels, located at 1518, 1520 and 1524 4th Ave., will expand the university’s footprint and represents a pivotal step in Marshall University’s ongoing efforts to transform the area into a leading hub for innovation and technology.
While there are no specific plans for the properties currently, they are included in the university’s master plan for the innovation district, which is flanked by the future Institute for Cyber Security on the east end and the Brad D. Smith Center for Business and Innovation on the west end.
“The purchase of this property signals another step forward in our collaboration with the city of Huntington and the state of West Virginia to cultivate a vibrant hub for innovation and economic development,” said Marshall University President Brad D. Smith.
The board also approved a resolution allowing reallocation of state funds for deferred maintenance projects to include repairing roof damage to Gullickson Hall, which houses programs for the College of Health Professions. The state funding, distributed to Marshall in 2022, is being used for more than 30 projects including structural repairs, HVAC upgrades and elevator modernization, among other significant initiatives. Nicknamed “Project: Shock and Awe,” the most visible work to date is the demolition of Laidley Hall at Third Avenue and 19th Street and also includes the planned demolition of Holderby Hall.
In other action, Marshall received a favorable audit opinion from CliftonLawsonAllen, an independent accounting firm that audited the university’s financial statements for the last two years.
Following an executive session, the board of governors authorized the president to move forward with executing a personnel contract, although details are not being released at this time.
In his remarks to the board, Smith said the university is moving forward with continued investment in a positive campus culture, working with newly elected political leaders and celebrating important Marshall moments that include soccer and football student-athletes who will compete this weekend at the highest levels.
“These are just a few of the amazing Marshall moments that are creating buzz, building engagement and inspiring growth and showing the world why Marshall is special,” Smith said.
Smith and board chair Geoff Sheils also thanked board member Patrick Farrell for his seven years of service to the board. Farrell was recently elected mayor of Huntington.