Lorain County Community College
Great Lakes BGDC
Elyria, Ohio

Environmentally-friendly business growth and development center draws businesses together, is a catalyst in the growth of a knowledge economy

A developing knowledge economy requires two things - a cadre of well-educated, skilled people working in innovative new businesses grounded on applied research and technological innovation. A stimulating work environment attracts the workers and businesses that thrive in a creative environment. The Great Lakes Business Growth and Development Center, set to break ground in June 2005, locates businesses together to enrich the entrepreneurial spirit with a collaborative environment, all part of a shift in Ohio's traditional manufacturing and agricultural economy to a knowledge-based economy.

The site is wooded, its center occupied by a large wetland area. The push for LEED certification led the architects to create a linear building and parking lot and to push them to the edges of the site. The circulation and public spaces all focus large expanses of glass on the woodland view. The building itself is designed to house 10-12 tenants in ultra-flexible tenant modules averaging 2,000 square feet. Each module houses one business, supported by an open architecture to increase accessibility to other businesses and encourage collaboration. Shared conferencing and video-conferencing facilities reduce the need for individual start-ups to fund these luxuries. LCCC's Corporate Outreach and training facility provides services to Lorain County businesses. Clark & Post Architects in Lorain serve as the architect of record and will manage the construction process.