Ohio University and property owner Carolyn Gilmore have reached a lease agreement of the former Woolworth building located at 31 South Court Street. The University took possession of the building Monday.  

The full-building lease is for an initial 5-year term and includes office space on the lower and first floors and 10 rental units located on the second floor. Income generated from the rental of the apartments will help support the building and the academic functions located on the lower and ground levels.  

Donna Goss, director of real estate management, community engagement and economic development, said negotiations went smoothly and university officials are pleased to be working with Gilmore. 

Plans to adapt the currently empty lower and first floors of the building are underway to accommodate staff during various phases of the University's capital improvement plan. A number of programs and offices in Lindley Hall will be the first to occupy the swing space while repairs and renovations take place in the 95-year-old Lindley building.  

Transition of offices to the Court Street location is expected by the end of fall semester.