MU purchases properties

[Sir Lawrence]

http://www.jsonline.com/watch/?watch=1&date=1/14/2008&id=34128

MU buys nearby properties for $14 million

Several properties near Marquette University, including some to house a new building planned for the university's College of Engineering, have been sold for $14 million, according to documents filed with the Milwaukee County Register of Deeds.

Marquette bought the properties, which include apartments and commercial buildings, from investors groups affiliated with Taxman Investment Co.

The Kalt Apartments, at 1621 W. Wisconsin Ave., 1623 W. Wisconsin Ave., and 628 N. 17th St. will eventually be the site of the College of Engineering's Discovery Learning Center, said Marquette spokeswoman Mary Pat Pfeil.

College officials in October announced a $15 million gift from Generac Power Systems Inc. founder Robert Kern and his wife, Patricia, to help pay for a new building, which will cost $100 million. Another apartment building bought by Marquette will be converted into a residence hall.