When MSOE acquired the building at 310 E. Knapp St. on March 1, 2023, the property included an existing federal lease administered by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) that had been in place since September 16, 1999. Prior to the acquisition, discussions with the GSA indicated that the agency intended to vacate the space within several months. Based on that understanding, MSOE’s long-term plan was to renovate the facility for academic use following the termination of GSA’s tenancy.

However, after the acquisition, the GSA elected to continue its occupancy beyond the original lease term while federal agencies determine their next steps. Under the terms of the inherited lease and federal authority allowing the government to require continued occupancy, MSOE is obligated to accommodate the tenant during this period.

We understand that some members of our community hoped the space would already be available for university use. That remains our long-term goal. In the meantime, MSOE is fulfilling its legal responsibilities as landlord to the federal government.

-Oct. 20, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

When did MSOE acquire the Knapp Street Building?
MSOE acquired the property on March 1, 2023.

Was there an existing lease on the property at the time of acquisition?
Yes. The building had an existing federal lease administered by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), which began on September 16, 1999.

What were MSOE’s plans for the building after acquisition?
MSOE intended to renovate the facility for academic use once the federal government vacated the space.

Has the GSA vacated the building?
No. Although initial discussions suggested the GSA would vacate within a few months of MSOE taking ownership, they have elected to continue occupancy while federal agencies determine their next steps.

Is MSOE required to allow the GSA to remain in the building?
Yes. Under the terms of the inherited lease and federal authority, MSOE is legally obligated to accommodate the GSA during this period.

When will the building be available for university use?
There is no confirmed timeline.

Why isn’t the building already being used by MSOE?
MSOE is currently fulfilling its legal responsibilities as landlord to the federal government, which includes honoring the continued occupancy of the GSA.

Q: Does MSOE have the ability to end the lease at the end of the term?
A: With the inherited lease, there is federal authority that allows the government to continue occupancy until it determines its next steps regardless of when the lease expires. In situations like this, the landlord is obligated to extend the lease.

Q: Does MSOE have authority over what happens within the Knapp Street building?
A: GSA is the tenant and they maintain authority over which federal department uses the facility.