Press Release- Jan 29, 2007
OFFICE OF GOV. BILL RITTER, JR.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
MONDAY, JAN. 29, 2007
Contact:
Evan Dreyer, 720-350-8370
Tom Hutton, University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, 719.262.3439
GOV. RITTER RECOMMENDS $7 MILLION IN CAPITAL FUNDING FOR UCCS SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING BUILDING
Gov. Bill Ritter announced today he is recommending $7 million in capital funding for the new science and engineering complex at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. The decision reverses former Gov. Bill Owens' decision to deny forwarding the funding request for fiscal 2007-08.
"One of the most effective economic-development tools state government can provide is a renewed commitment to higher education," Ritter said. "The UCCS project is a perfect example of how we can make long-term investments that will reap incredible returns in the years to come."
The state appropriated $46 million for the 157,000-square-foot building in 2001 to accommodate a dramatic increase in the UCCS student population. But the recent recession forced the state to de-appropriate several capital construction projects, including this one, between 2002 and 2005.
Since 2001, inflation has increased the cost of the project from $46 million to $53 million. The $7 million appropriation being recommended by Ritter for fiscal 2007-08 would cover that inflationary increase.
"We are deeply appreciative of Gov. Ritter's support of the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs and the university's initiative to expand science and engineering education in the Pikes Peak region," said UCCS Chancellor Pam Shockley-Zalabak. "Student access, our research initiatives, and the economic development needs of our region will be strengthened by this investment."
The building will provide a state-of-the-art science and engineering center. It will offer laboratory, research and learning space for biology, bio-energetics, physics, mechanical and aerospace engineering, mathematics and homeland defense programs. The building also is being planned in partnership with nearby K-12 schools to help get young students interested in science and engineering careers.
The governor's request will be presented to the legislature's Joint Budget Committee in February.