Ohio University announces new collaboration with Fairfield County and Pickerington Local School District
Ohio University is working with Fairfield County to provide expanded service to the area.
In a new agreement, contingent upon approval from the OHIO Board of Trustees and Fairfield County Board of County Commissioners, Fairfield County will purchase the property located on Stonecreek Drive NW in Violet Township from Ohio University.
“Fairfield County plans to use the space for meetings, conferences, and satellite offices. All offices will be able to reserve space and be accessible to the public. First occupants of the Center will be the Fairfield County Sheriff,” Fairfield County Commissioner Dave Levacy, Board President, said.
The 30,000 square feet of space, which will be sold for an estimated $2.2 M, will become the Fairfield County Government Services Center Northwest.
“It makes a lot of sense to own an accessible Government Services Center in the Pickerington and Violet Township area because one-third of the county's population lives there – and the area continues to be growing,” Fairfield County Commissioner Jeff Fix, Board Vice-President, said.
Ohio University will also collaborate with Pickerington Local School District to identify space for expanded service to the area.
“Pickerington Local School District is excited to continue our partnership with Ohio University Lancaster and enrich our students' opportunities through continuing education,” Dr. Chris Briggs, superintendent of Pickerington Local School District, said.
The University will continue to operate in the Stonecreek Drive NW facility through June 2022.
“We are excited to pursue an exciting new partnership with the Pickerington Local School District for Ohio University to expand its degree courses at the high school,” Ohio University Lancaster Dean of Campus and Community Relations Jarrod Tudor said. “In addition, the Fairfield County Workforce Center will continue to host Ohio University in efforts to prepare citizens for jobs in manufacturing and skilled trades.”
The details of this property sale and investment in Fairfield County will be discussed at the October 7 Board of Trustees meeting in Athens.