OSU-Cascades has finally found a home. After secret negotiations, the state is buying 56 acres in a west-side location for $13 million. Gated residential communities and posh retail shops surround it. Why wasn’t it snapped up earlier? Well, it’s mostly a dirt mine with unstable geology. No one would touch it.

So, what’s the alternative? Well, the state already owns 640 acres on the east side. It is already in the Common School Fund for long-term investment. The Stevens Road Master Plan details residential and retail areas and is available online.

It is easily accessible from four directions, and housing is more affordable on the east side. It is a better location than the crowded, expensive west-side proposal.

Locating the campus on state-owned land would allow more rapid development of the university. The state would enhance the desirability of its remaining property and would be able to control development within its 640 acres. The property is at the edge of the urban growth boundary, and competitive development pressures around the campus would be fewer. Then it would make a great long-term investment. Why didn’t our highest educators pick the smart choice?