President Al Bowman Reacts To Capital Bill Announcement

Media Advisory:  Illinois State University President Al Bowman Monday released the following statement regarding Governor Quinn's announcement of a capital construction bill which includes funding for the University's Fine Arts Complex renovation:

Governor Quinn's capital construction announcement is encouraging for Illinois State University, with news that the project includes $54 million for rehabilitation of the Fine Arts Complex.  Given the poor condition of Illinois' economy, it may be quite some time before any capital funds are actually released for use.  Still, the renovation has been a top state capital priority for more than half a decade, and the faculty, staff members, students and visitors who utilize the complex certainly deserve and need the critical upgrade.

We must also remember that a fiscal year 2010 operating budget is still not in place, and that the Governor's current proposal calls for more than $1 billion in cuts, thousands of state employee layoffs and furlough days for employees of some state agencies. As our elected leaders make those tough choices in Springfield, Illinois State will continue to plan, prioritize and act in a spirit of self-determination.  It is that spirit that has driven our University's positive growth during the most challenging economic climate in memory.

Background: The Fine Arts Complex rehabilitation would allow the programs currently located in nine different buildings to be consolidated into one location. The project calls for demolition of Centennial West and the Center for the Visual Arts and replacement with a new facility and significant remodeling of Centennial East, with the demolition of the rotunda classroom wing; replacement of inadequate, outdated mechanical and electrical equipment; upgrading of environmental controls to provide appropriate, controlled temperatures and humidity to the complex; and upgrading the computer, data and telecommunication network for the complex.