Ohio University Eastern selects East Central Ohio Educational Service Center for campus building purchase

Ohio University has selected the East Central Ohio Educational Service Center (ECOESC), through a competitive selection process, to purchase the Health and Physical Education Center (HAPEC) and the Science and Engineering Building on the OHIO Eastern campus. 

Both the HAPEC and Science and Engineering Building no longer meet the institutional needs of OHIO Eastern. Recognizing the potential to better utilize these facilities while furthering community partnerships, OHIO Eastern will entrust them to the ECOESC, an educational service center with a demonstrated commitment to serving more than 20 member school districts and impacting over 27,000 students across five East Central Ohio counties.

"We are delighted to partner with the East Central Ohio Educational Service Center," said David Rohall, OHIO Eastern dean of campus and community relations. "The ECOESC's mission aligns closely with our goals of providing enhanced educational opportunities and fostering workforce development. We believe this collaboration will create a significant positive impact on the local community and beyond."

The purchase agreement for the HAPEC building will include provisions to ensure that students and faculty will continue to have access to the gym equipment and basketball court. The University will also retain the use of HAPEC for graduation recognition ceremonies once a year, preserving the OHIO Eastern tradition.

Through the purchase of the HAPEC and Science and Engineering Building, the ECOESC plans to expand educational and workforce training opportunities for students and adult residents in the surrounding communities, particularly in Belmont County. The HAPEC facility will serve as a community and educational asset, offering students and community members opportunities for athletic activities, community engagement events, and other educational experiences.

Furthermore, the ECOESC intends to leverage these facilities to increase access to quality physical and mental healthcare services, fostering a healthier community and addressing the growing need for talent in the healthcare industry.

"We envision a future where these facilities serve as centers of learning, wellness and collaboration," said Ron Busby, Board President at East Central Ohio Educational Service Center. "Through partnerships with Ohio University and other educational institutions, we aim to empower students and community members, opening doors to new possibilities and a brighter future."

The ECOESC is actively working on potential lease partnership agreements with several local entities for use of space within the facility.  Additionally, ECOESC has entered into an MOU lease agreement with St. Clairsville-Richland City School District, allowing the district to use HAPEC facility for athletics, events and education. Local families and their students will benefit from resources not available at the district's current facilities.

The timeline and approval for the sale is contingent on review and approval by the Ohio Department of Administrative Services and the Ohio Controlling Board.