Description of Request

Submitted By: Richard Rudnicki, Director of Planning, Design, & Construction

The Marsh Laboratory currently houses the State of Montana Veterinary Diagnostics Laboratory along with several Montana State University research users. With the opening of the new State Combined Labs building, all State users will vacate the facility, leaving approximately half of the building unoccupied. Constructed in 1961, Marsh Laboratory has reached a point where significant renovation would be required to maintain acceptable building and laboratory standards. The facility’s most recent Facility Condition Index rating of 31% places it among the poorest condition facilities on campus, well above the threshold considered poor condition. After evaluating the building’s deferred maintenance needs, research limitations, and the substantial investment required to modernize the facility, University Facilities Management and Space Planning have determined that continued long-term investment in the building is not financially or operationally viable. Based on these considerations, it is recommended that vacated space within Marsh Laboratory not be permanently reassigned and that any temporary use remain limited in duration and appropriate for the building’s current condition. As opportunities arise, occupants should be relocated to support a gradual transition toward vacancy and future demolition of the facility.

Resolution

Date: May 1, 2026

Space Management Committee has approved the noted actions which support the retirement of Marsh Laboratories from the University Space portfolio.