It was hardly a gamble, ISU will only spend 3.6 million for 200,000 square feet of additional research space. Of course, it's not the most functional building, nor will it be aesthetically pleasing.... but it's still a good investment for a university that has very serious space issues for research faculty and very little money for improvements.
Now, it you told me ISU spent considerably more for the old Banncok hospital... that is another story.