http://ozarkspub.vo.llnwd.net/o37/KSMU/audio/mp3/centertoho_1553.mp3
Missouri State University will soon be home to a high-tech research and manufacturing facility in downtown Springfield.
Mike Smith has the story:
Missouri State University > University Communications > News Release
SPRINGFIELD Jordan Valley Innovation Center (JVIC) will occupy the former Missouri Farmers Association (MFA) milling facility, located at 524 N. Boonville Ave.
Renovation of the milling facility was kicked off with a groundbreaking ceremony this afternoon (Nov. 29). U.S. Congressman Roy Blunt, R-Mo.; Missouri State President Michael T. Nietzel; and Springfield Mayor Pro Tem Ralph K. Manley were the featured speakers.
"The development of the Jordan Valley Innovation Center will serve as a centerpiece for Missouri State University's growth in advanced science and technology," said Nietzel. "The university is eager to begin its work at JVIC, and we look forward to the important discoveries that are anticipated from the scientists located in this facility. We are extremely grateful for the support we have received for this endeavor, especially from Congressman Roy Blunt."
JVIC will focus on applied research in biomaterials, nano-technologies, advanced technologies, genomics/proteomics, bio-systems software engineering and bio-medical instrument development. Phase one involves renovating two buildings on the site. The projected cost for the first phase of renovation is $12 million, which will be funded by a $7.64 million Department of Defense grant and an anticipated $4.4 million in additional federal funding. Renovation of phase one is expected to be completed in April 2007.
"This entire project would not have been possible without the continuing and ongoing support of Congressman Blunt and the Missouri congressional delegation," said Dr. Jim Baker, vice president for research and economic development.
Missouri State will occupy four floors and will lease four floors to private research firms. Brewer Science, Inc. of Rolla, Mo.; Nantero, Inc. of Woburn, Mass.; and CrossLink of St. Louis have all signed agreements to lease one floor each from the university. Lease documents for the fourth floor are expected to be signed shortly.
The Center for Applied Science and Engineering (CASE) will relocate much of its work to the new building. CASE is committed to the development and support of defense-related advanced technology industries that have, or are planning, product development in Missouri. When completed, the JVIC site will include space for the early stages of developing a technology and an advanced manufacturing research laboratory to efficiently move products from the laboratory to the "real world."
Recognizing the increased importance of defense and homeland security, CASE works closely with government and industrial partners to identify opportunities for enhancing technologies and processes that can impact public safety, military technology, defense and security.