Penn State Announces 5-Year Construction Plan

5-14-97
University Park, Pa. -- For the first time ever, Penn State is able to map out a systematic long-range construction plan to meet its most pressing academic facilities needs because of a new partnership with the Commonwealth that puts capital funding for Penn State on a regular five-year basis.

"The University will now be able to undertake a number of significant construction projects that will have a profound impact on the educational programs and quality of life at many Penn State campuses," President Graham B. Spanier said.

At a special briefing today (Wednesday, May 14) for University administrators, faculty and community leaders, Spanier gave details on how $200 million from the Commonwealth will be used in addition to more than $250 million in funds from other sources.

In March, Gov. Tom Ridge announced that Penn State would receive $40 million a year for five years for Department of General Services construction projects at several Penn State campuses.

"This commitment replaces a scattered approach in which Penn State never knew when construction funds for any particular project would be released from the state," he said. "Knowing that the funds will be available on a regular schedule gives the University a tremendous opportunity to replace, renovate and build new facilities according to a logical plan. Knowing what to expect from Harrisburg also allows the University to engage in long-term planning and to combine the state funds with internal University funds, funds raised through philanthropy and funds from self-supporting operations for the maximum benefit."

The state-funded capital budget process can take years. Once projects are submitted they must be approved by the House and Senate before going to the governor's office, and funding can be delayed for years, according to state budget priorities. Currently, Penn State has more than $360 million worth of approved capital projects that have yet to be funded.

The five-year schedule for Penn State's state-funded new buildings, major renovations, and upgrades to utility systems include classroom buildings, research centers, telecommunications facilities and libraries. Some of these projects will also be paid in part by University funds. In addition, Penn State will begin a number of construction projects that will be funded entirely by University or private resources.

Spanier announced that the university would focus its priorities on buildings to support the academic programs of the university, as well as buildings that will enhance the educational experience and quality of life for our students. In a year-by-year summary, projects include:

-- 1997-98: Two new buildings on West Campus slated for the Colleges of Engineering and Earth and Mineral Sciences, a general purpose classroom addition to the Thomas Building and renovations to Weaver and Patterson buildings at University Park, a multi-purpose facility at Penn State Behrend and heating system work at Penn State Harrisburg. Penn State-funded projects include residence hall facilities at Penn State Berks and Penn State Behrend, several Intercollegiate Athletic Facilities, the HUB/Robeson Center and a new child care facility at University Park.

-- 1998-99: Design work for a science/chemistry building, utility work for the West Campus and telecommunications at University Park and the library at Penn State Harrisburg. Penn State-funded projects include graduate student housing at Penn State Harrisburg, residence hall construction at Penn State Berks, and family health center facilities at The Hershey Medical Center.

-- 1999-2000: Phase one construction of the science/chemistry building and a library depository at University Park, a new classroom and electrical upgrade work at Penn State Altoona. Penn State-funded projects include housing and intercollegiate athletic facilities at University Park, a residence hall at Penn State Behrend and specialty care clinic at The Hershey Medical Center.

-- 2000-01: Renovations of Chadlee Laboratory and power plant improvements at University Park, a library and classroom building at Penn State York and central energy system work at The Hershey Medical Center. Penn State-funded projects include general capital improvement projects

-- 2001-02: Renovations to Sackett, the engineering units, and Burrowes, renovations and an addition to Borland Laboratory, and a new forestry building at University Park. Penn State-funded projects include general capital improvement projects.

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Contact: Christy Rambeau (814) 865-7517 (office) (814) 237-9046 (home) cmr7@psu.edu
Bill Mahon (814) 865-7517 (office) (814) 237-5625 (home) np3@psu.edu