Western Michigan University is a step closer to being able to expand its Business Technology Research Park in the future. A state House committee has approved a bill that would remove deed restrictions on the property known as the Colony Farm Orchard. The measure now goes to the full House.

The property between US 131, Drake Road, Stadium Drive and Parkview was transferred from the state Mental Health Department to Western in 1978. That agreement restricted use of the land for anything other than open space and public recreation. The House proposal would remove that limitation.

The idea has drawn fire from environmental groups and some Oshtemo Township officials. They say the land should be preserved as "green space".