CALCUTTA - Due to an increase in enrollment over the past year the Ohio Valley College of Technology has decided to expand its facilities. After evaluating several properties, OVCT recently decided to purchase the former Chrysler/Jeep Dealership located in Calcutta from the First National Community Bank for $700,000.
According to a press release, enrollment at the college has increased by 29 percent in the past year. "We have simply maxed out our current facility and now is the time to make an investment in this community's future," Executive Director Scott Rogers said.
The decision to purchase the 10.6 acre state Route 170 location was reached because of the property's convenient access from Route 11 and the close proximity to area businesses, Rogers said. OVCT will perform a complete renovation of existing buildings on the property to allow for nearly 20,000 square feet of space for a library/computer resource center, student lounge area, multiple computer lecture classrooms, laboratory facilities for health care programs, technologically-equipped general classrooms, a faculty workspace and administrative offices. Parking for approximately 250 vehicles will be available in addition to green space in a park-like campus setting, according to the press release. Space will also be set aside for future building expansions.
"When completed, these new hi-tech facilities will double the size of OVCT's current operation," Rogers said. Construction plans have already been completed by A & I Studios based out of East Liverpool. According to Rogers the new facility should be functioning by summer 2010, depending on construction timelines. "This is a very exciting time for OVCT and the students. We look forward to welcoming the community to our new home," he said. Future OVCT expansions include new programs that are currently in the developmental and application process, Rogers said.
Ohio Valley College of Technology was originally founded in 1886 making it one of the oldest career colleges in the state of Ohio. OVCT offers associates degrees in Dental Assisting, Computer Technology Medical Assisting, Health Information Technology and Accounting and Business Technology.
Formal articulation agreements are also in place for the transfer of credits from Mountain State University, DeVry University, and the University of Phoenix. Veterans are also eligible to use their post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to attend classes.
