Fairmount Properties is leading the development of the IDEA District in Huntington, WV, a transformative mixed-use project designed to bridge the gap between academia and industry. Positioned strategically between Downtown Huntington and Marshall University, this $200+ million initiative has become catalyst for economic advancement in the region. The IDEA District is more than just a collection of buildings; it is an ecosystem fostering collaboration among industry leaders, academics, and innovators. Anchored by the Brad D. Smith Center for Business and Innovation (opened in 2024), the IDEA District features state-of-the-art facilities such as the Institute for Cyber Security (opening Fall 2027), the Center for Medical Technology and Innovation, and Marshall’s iCenter for entrepreneurial innovation. These centers are tailored to support a variety of sectors including cybersecurity, medical technology, forensics and entrepreneurship, offering spaces that are flexible and designed to meet the needs of both startups and established companies.  

In addition to its focus on innovation and research, the district is designed with a community-driven approach, integrating retail, dining, and residential options to create a vibrant and dynamic environment. The inclusion of a 125-room nationally branded hotel, upscale residential options, and amenities tailored to professionals ensures that the district is not only a place to work but also a place to live, play, and thrive. Fairmount Properties' commitment to excellence in this mission-driven project is evident in every aspect of the development, from design to execution. This large-scale development has positioned Huntington as a critical hub for innovation and economic growth, driving a new era of prosperity for the entire region.

The IDEA District is now leasing Phase II with up to 100,000 sq. ft. of retail, office, lab, and innovation spaces.  For more information on available spaces, please click here. 

Marshall University