Wayne State University will break ground on a new engineering facility May 2 specializing in producing innovations in sustainable energy technology, health care, biotech and other high tech industries.
University officials expect the $27.3-million Marvin I. Danto Engineering Development Center to be a hub for Metro Detroit companies to develop technology, create new economy jobs and spin-off companies. The center represents a rapid expansion of the university's current facilities, which will hopefully help keep start-up companies and talented individuals in the state.
"We really expect to attract start-up companies in the Metro Detroit area," says Greg Auner, a university engineering professor and director of the university's Smart Sensors and Integrated Microsystems program. "Companies that don't have the resources to rent these types of facilities or have access to the expertise will be able to do so here."
The three-story structure will be built adjacent to the university's College of Engineering building in Midtown Detroit. It will incorporate green-building features, such as recycling construction waste. The project is set to be finished by the fall of 2008. The center is being funded by $15 million in state funds, a $3 million donation from Troy businessman and former engineering student Marvin I. Danto and $3.2 million in other private gifts.
"I see the people of Michigan as the direct beneficiary of this new engineering center," Danto says. "I see this endeavor helping to create alternative fuels and more efficient automobile engines in America with subsequent growth in industries, new jobs and a sustainable society."
Source: Wayne State University
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