State Tech reveals plans to bring “Eatertainment” venue

Published on July 6, 2021

The State Tech Board of Regents unanimously approved a design contract today with Paragon Architects to replace the clubhouse at the Osage Country Club with a multipurpose event and entertainment venue.

The proposed 31,000 square foot structure will include a wide selection of amenities including; a 50 seat theatre, state-of-the-art golf simulators, a sports bar, pro shop, outdoor gaming area, e-sports gaming zone, duckpin bowling and a 250 person event center that will overlook a nearby lake.

In March of 2020, the regents approved an agreement between the college and the State Technical College Foundation to manage the Osage Country Club. State Tech President Dr. Shawn Strong said at the time that they couldn’t have taken over the country club without the forgiveness of a loan by Mid-America Bank.

“While taking care of our students is our number one priority, we are pleased that we will be able to give back to the community.  When we talked about our vision for the Osage Country Club with Mid-America bank they saw the potential for not only Linn but Central MO and forgave an outstanding debt that allowed us to take over ownership.  I’m not sure anyone fully envisioned what we are getting ready to do.  We are still holding some of our plans back, but this is going to be big!” said Strong.

State Tech has set enrollment records in each of the last four years, and is expected to welcome a record 2,000 students to campus this fall.

“This venue will play an important part of a long term growth strategy. When students visit campus a common question is, what is there to do in Linn?  Now we have a better answer. This venue will have a significant impact on our ability to recruit and entertain students while they are here,” said Strong.