Gabel: Governor Walz proposes strong investment in University of Minnesota

Gov. Tim Walz on Monday proposed investing $224.2 million in infrastructure upgrades and capital improvements at the University of Minnesota. 

Walz’s proposal would fund:

• $125 million in asset preservation projects at existing U of M facilities around the state; 
• construction of a world-class facility for the University’s nation-leading developmental psychology program;
• modernization of over 36,000 square feet of learning space for University of Minnesota Duluth students;
• and the creation of a state-of-the-art teaching and laboratory space for undergraduate chemistry students on the Twin Cities campus.

State lawmakers will consider capital investment measures during the upcoming Legislative session, which convenes on February 11. 

University of Minnesota President Joan Gabel released the following statement in response:

“I want to thank Gov. Tim Walz and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan for their ongoing support for the University of Minnesota.  The governor and lieutenant governor recognize that investing in the University of Minnesota directly strengthens our entire state. They continue to show their commitment to the strong, foundational partnership between the state and the University, something for which I am immensely grateful.
 
“Our 2020 capital request demonstrates the University’s commitment to scholarship and discovery. It expands learning opportunities for students, our faculty’s research capacity and access to clinical care for all Minnesotans. An investment in our facilities is an investment in the tremendous impact of our people — and it will only serve to grow the University’s outsized economic contribution to the state of Minnesota.
 
“I speak on behalf of the entire University of Minnesota community when I say how much we appreciate the governor’s capital improvement proposal. I look forward to working with members of the Legislature on a strong bonding bill that renews the University of Minnesota and fulfills the University’s longstanding, joint commitment to the future prosperity of our state.”

President Gabel released a video thanking Gov. Walz and Lt. Gov. Flanagan for their bonding proposal. Learn more about the University’s 2020 capital request here.

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