DAYTON, OH – Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is set to expand significantly over the next few years following the announcement of a 50-year Enhanced Use Lease (EUL) agreement between Synergy Development and the Department of the Air Force. This agreement will allow for the development of 43.5 acres at Wright-Patterson to establish the Convergence Research Center, a cutting-edge facility designed to foster collaboration between industry, academia, and government.
The EUL, officially signed on December 6, 2024, marks a historic milestone for the Dayton Region, as it is the first of its kind in the area. The project, estimated at $250 million, will be one of the largest commercial developments in Dayton’s history.
A Transformational Partnership
To commemorate the agreement, Congressman Mike Turner joined representatives from the State of Ohio, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Synergy, JobsOhio, and the Dayton Development Coalition (DDC) to discuss the long-term impact of the project.
“This is an expansion of our vision—bringing together jobs inside and outside the fence at Wright-Patterson, growing opportunities in the commercial and academic sectors, and positioning our community for future success,” said Congressman Turner.
Jeff Hoagland, President & CEO of the Dayton Development Coalition, emphasized the project’s national significance. “This partnership between the Air Force and Synergy Development is transformational, not just for our region but for our country,” he said.
A Hub for Innovation
The Convergence Research Center will serve as a hub for technological advancements and collaboration between government agencies, private industry, and academic institutions.
J.P. Nauseef, President & CEO of JobsOhio, highlighted the state’s bright future: “This will be a place where industry, academia, and government come together to drive innovation. Ohio is well-positioned for success in the aerospace and defense sectors.”
Col. Dustin Richards, Commander of the 88th Air Base Wing, echoed the importance of the expansion. “The population at Wright-Patt is growing, not just for the sake of growth, but because our capabilities and mission are critical to national security during this time of great power competition,” he said.
One of the Largest Commercial Projects in Dayton’s History
The project includes the construction of eight office buildings outside Wright-Patterson’s installation fence, expanding commercial activity in the region.
“This will be one of the largest commercial projects Dayton has ever seen,” said Jerad Barnett, President & CEO of Synergy and Mills Development. “It’s been a long journey to get here, and we are excited to see it come to life.”
The initiative aligns with Governor Mike DeWine’s vision for Ohio as a leader in aerospace and defense innovation. Joe Zeis, Senior Advisor for Aerospace and Defense, emphasized Ohio’s role: “This project is crucial not just for our community, not just for Ohio, but for the entire nation. Ohio remains the foundation of aerospace and defense innovation.”
What is an Enhanced Use Lease (EUL)?
An EUL is a partnership that allows the Air Force to lease underutilized property to public or private entities for commercial development. In return, the Air Force receives compensation—either monetary or in-kind—at fair market value.
This latest expansion underscores Wright-Patterson’s growing role as a national hub for defense, research, and technological innovation, ensuring that Ohio remains at the forefront of aerospace advancements for decades to come.
