EIU Media Relations

Release of Funding Allows for Temperature Control Upgrades

Eastern Illinois University received word this week that Gov. Rod Blagojevich has authorized the university to move forward with its plans to replace temperature control systems in four of its buildings.

By announcing the release of $72,000, the governor gave Eastern the go-ahead to eliminate/retire antiquated equipment in Lantz, Lumpkin, Klehm and the Physical Science buildings. Replacement equipment will offer greater reliability and operation capabilities, increase building efficiency and be compatible with Eastern's current graphical networked building automation systems.

The recently released money is roughly a fifth of the total project cost ($350,000), and was the final release needed to proceed with the project.

It represents one of more than 30 projects statewide scheduled to be funded through the state's Capital 2002 budget that totals $17.4 million.

"To help us decide which facilities to renovate, we choose projects that met the criteria we set of promoting education, health care, public safety and economic development. These projects meet our requirements," the governor said, upon releasing the funds.

"These renovations will help improve energy efficiency, rehabilitate an historic site, repair public spaces and update state facilities that, in the long run, will be more cost effective to fix now."

Other higher education recipients of funding include Chicago State University, $1.3 million for infrastructure upgrades; and Parkland Community College, $168,800 for the upgrade of a facility exterior.

All of the 30-plus projects are overseen by the state's Capital Development Board, which manages all state construction projects. They will provide critical remodeling and infrastructure improvements that would likely cost more if delayed.

The Governor's Office, CDB and the Governor's Office of Management and Budget reviewed all projects and gave authorization to proceed based on priority.