Missouri S&T set to build Rolla research park

ROLLA, Mo. (AP) -- The University of Missouri's science-driven campus in Rolla is about to begin construction of its own research park.

Innovation Park will be located on the southwest corner of the Missouri University of Science and Technology campus. Construction of the first building will begin later this month on what's now part of a driving range at the school's golf course.

A campus research park has been under consideration for more than a decade, back when the school was still known as the University of Missouri-Rolla. Missouri S&T leaders credit university system president Gary Forsee -- a Rolla alumnus -- with moving the project forward.

Similar parks are in place at or near the university's campuses in Columbia and St. Louis.