
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, who also serves as chair of the State Building Commission, recently delivered news that a series of esteemed projects for the University of Wisconsin (UW) System have gotten the green light. The announcement comes after previous delays caused by partisan disagreement among Commission members. The state's commitment to education and future workforces was underscored by Evers' assertion that these projects are indispensable for the UW System's efforts in "recruiting, training, and retaining a talented workforce," according to the Office of the Governor.
Among the investments greenlit, a substantial $29 million will be funneled into UW-Madison's engineering building expansion — a project aiming to alleviate infrastructure woes, boost enrollment, and bring modern updates to the classroom and research facilities. Another notable allocation is the $10.5 million set aside for improvement projects at UW-Whitewater's Winther Hall and Heide Hall, addressing critical infrastructure and enhancing educational spaces. Aside from the large-scale commitments, funds have also been appropriated to smaller maintenance and repair endeavors across the state — a move likely to be welcomed by UW stakeholders long burdened by a maintenance backlog, as reported by the Office of the Governor.
In a statement obtained by the Office of the Governor, Gov. Evers conveyed his approval of the newly sanctioned projects emphasizing the state's role in championing the UW System's mission. He noted, "Our UW System is a central part of Wisconsin's ability to compete in recruiting, training, and retaining a talented workforce, and it is absolutely essential that we support the UW's important work, from these projects to robust state investments in our next budget."
Despite previous hindrances, like the stalling by Republican lawmakers last month leading to a delay in reallocating over $70 million for these endeavours, the Building Commission has pushed forward with its approvals. This includes $5.4 million dedicated for the finishing touches on UW-Stout's Heritage Hall, which is envisioned to be a new nexus for the College of Arts and Human Sciences. Other Commission members, including State Senators Brad Pfaff, Mary Felzkowski, André Jacque and Representatives Jill Billings, Rob Swearingen, and Robert Wittke, joined Evers in sanctioning these pivotal educational investments, along with citizen member Barb Worcester, as per the Office of the Governor.