Board Of Trustees Approves Phase I Of Knowledge Park At Behrend

11-7-98
University Park, Pa. -- Construction of the Penn State Erie Knowledge Park is moving ahead on schedule as Penn State's Board of Trustees approved a 51-acre lease agreement between the College and the Greater Erie Industrial Development Corporation.

"The Knowledge Park is a critical component in Penn State-Behrend's long term plans to strengthen and diversify the economic base in Erie," said John M. Lilley, provost and dean of the college.

According to Dr. Robert Light, associate provost and associate dean, the Knowledge Park will serve as a catalyst for technological innovation in manufacturing and business for the region and nationally for the plastics industry.

"The Knowledge Park was created to promote regional economic development by enhancing manufacturing and business interaction with the University," Light said in a recent presentation to area business leaders. "Joint research and technology transfer will result in new processes, new products, new companies, greater employment opportunities, and enhanced wealth creation in the region." The park will house research and development facilities, multi-tenant space for growing businesses, corporate and technical headquarters, and technical and information processing facilities.

Plans call for the Knowledge Park to expand to 200 acres adjacent to Penn State Erie over a 20-year period.

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Contact: Christy Rambeau (814) 865-7517 (office) (814) 237-9046 (home) cmr7@psu.edu