Construction is set to begin immediately.
The 21st-century, state-of-the-art structure will position Marshall University as a national leader in cyber security education, research and training.
Marshall University President Brad D. Smith said the project represents a major leap forward for innovation, collaboration and workforce development.
“This project represents the power of collaboration and shared purpose,” Smith said. “It’s a shining example of what can be achieved when government, industry and higher education work together to serve the greater good. We’re grateful to everyone who helped bring this vision to life and eager to begin construction with Neighborgall leading the way.”
C.R. Neighborgall, president of Neighborgall Construction, said his team is ready to move forward.
“We are excited to collaborate with Marshall University to build this innovative institute for our community, which will serve as an anchor for cybersecurity,” Neighborgall said. “ It’s an honor to bring this exceptional design from concept to construction, transforming a remarkable vision into a lasting reality.”
Located directly across Hal Greer Boulevard from the university’s Old Main, the 72,000-square-foot facility will serve as the west gateway to the Fourth Avenue innovation corridor, now known as the IDEA District.
“Marshall continues to advance a standard-setting innovation district that is driving growth and opportunity for our region,” said Toney Stroud, Marshall’s vice president for strategic initiatives and corporate relations. “IDEA stands for ‘Impossible Doesn’t Exist Anymore,’ and that spirit of possibility guides our work every day.”
The IDEA district is bookended by the Brad D. Smith Center for Business and Innovation and the ICS. The new institute will feature 13 laboratories, including six dedicated cybersecurity training labs, an industrial control systems lab, an Internet of Things (IoT) lab, and an open-source intelligence lab. With more than 500,000 cybersecurity job openings nationwide, the demand for highly trained professionals continues to grow.
Marshall’s center will be focused on protecting the country’s vital infrastructure.