The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth announced today that it is moving forward with a three-year $170 million capital plan to strengthen the SouthCoast region's innovation economy and create new learning and discovery opportunities for its students and faculty.
"The time is right for the university to make the strategic investments that our students, faculty and community partners need and deserve in order to reach our collective aspirations," Chancellor MacCormack said. "Our plan is designed to strengthen UMass Dartmouth's position as a powerhouse for learning, discovery and engagement."
The plan includes the following:
* $43 million renovation and expansion of the Claire T. Carney Library, which moved into the full-scale construction phase this month and is planned to be completed in 2012.
* $35 million energy conservation project that includes construction of a high-efficiency co-generation plant, retrofitting of lights, and installation of photo-voltaic roof technology to create a renewable source of energy.
* $26 million bio-manufacturing facility, which will permanently employ 12 people, provide world class space and equipment for emerging life science companies to test their products, and create opportunities for UMass Dartmouth students and faculty to receive hands on experience and research opportunities. The facility will serve as a magnet that attracts bio-manufacturing companies to the region.
* $45 million expansion of the School of Marine Science and Technology.
* $10 million information technology upgrade to expand high-speed and wireless capability.
* $4.5 million main campus laboratory, art studio and classroom renovations.
* $5 million renovations of the main campus residence halls for first-year students.
* $5 million expansion and renovation of fitness and athletic facilities.
The plan is financed through a combination of University bonding, state bonding, private, and grant funding, as well as savings realized from the energy-related investments. The plan is directly related to our strategic plan goals. More details on each of the components of the plan will be announced in the coming weeks as will additional facility improvement plans as funding sources are identified.