Virginia Tech has announced that it will build a major research center in the Ballston area of Arlington, with occupancy scheduled for 2010.

The new building, purchased by the Virginia Tech Foundation, will further the university’s mission to expand its research portfolio in a region that offers great opportunity for partnerships with corporate research entities and close proximity to government agencies and other public and private-sector organizations.

Speaking at the event were Virginia Tech President Charles W. Steger; Rep. Jim Moran, Eighth Congressional District of Virginia; John Lee, chairman of the Northern Virginia Technology Council (NVTC); Walter Tejada, chairman, Arlington County Board; and Deborah Dunie, executive vice president and chief technology officer, CACI. James Bohland, vice president and executive director, Virginia Tech, National Capital Region Operations, will moderate.