The WVU Foundation Inc. announced Thursday (July 3) the purchase of approximately 16 1/4 acres of property from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston. The property is located near the heart of the Evansdale Campus, just off Patteson Drive.

Purchase price was $12 million, with possession of the school property delayed for approximately two years while a new St. Francis school is designed and constructed. The sale does not include the property the Diocese owns and leases to several Patteson Drive businesses.

Foundation Vice President Craig Walker said the Foundation purchased the property for the benefit of WVU , and will make it available to the University for its use until such time as WVU purchases it from the Foundation.

Vice President for Administration, Finance and Human Resources Scott Kelley said WVU plans to purchase the property from the Foundation, but will wait until finances are more secure.

“We have been interested in this property for several years because of its strategic proximity to our residence halls, academic facilities, health sciences center, PRT and recreation center,”Kelley said.”We are appreciative of the Foundation for their investment in the future of WVU and to the Church for approaching us about selling the property at a mutually agreeable and fair price. The University, the Church, the City, the region all win in this situation. WVU is committed to the well-being and smart growth of the Greater Morgantown community.”

Kelley said University officials will now begin to study short- and long-term plans for the area in conjunction with the institutions facilities master plan.