Rendering of the Polk Learning Commons at UW-Oshkosh, Aug. 22, 2024. (Photo courtesy: UW-Oshkosh)
(WTAQ-WLUK) — Part of Governor Tony Evers’ Capital Budget includes $137.5 million to renovate UW-Oshkosh’s Polk Learning Commons.
On Monday, the governor announced approximately $4.1 billion in recommended investments in his 2025-27 Capital Budget to support major projects across Wisconsin.
Click here to see all the projects.
The Polk Learning Commons proposed project would reduce the overall square footage of the current facility, saving in operational costs while providing more flexible space to adapt to future needs.
The current building was constructed in 1962 with another wing added in 1969. In May of 2024, over 50% of the building’s rated components were found to be in “Poor” condition. The project will demolish and reconstruct the 1962 wing and renovate the 1969 wing, resulting in a facility that is more accessible and energy efficient and saving an estimated $52,000 annually.
The capital budget proposal also includes $61.2 million to refurbish utility and service tunnels at the Winnebago Mental Health Institute and $3.9 million to design critical heating and chiller replacements at UW-Oshkosh.
In addition, a commitment of $325 million for the realignment of correctional institutions, including ultimately closing Green Bay Correctional Institution in 2029 and wholly rehabilitating and transforming Waupun Correctional Institution.
According to Associated General Contractors of Wisconsin, for every $1 in construction spending, there is $1.76 of economic activity in Wisconsin. Additionally, for every $1 million of construction spending, nine jobs are supported in the state’s economy. As a result, it is estimated the governor’s proposed Capital Budget supports approximately $7.3 billion in economic activity and nearly 37,200 jobs across the state.
Comments