UW-River Falls issues statement on UW System capital funding

August 29, 2017- Late Monday afternoon, the Wisconsin Assembly Joint Finance Committee (JFC) passed a capital budget for the UW System which was significantly larger than that proposed by Governor Scott Walker. The measure passed by a 16-0 vote.

Included in the budget is $4.95 million for the University of Wisconsin-River Falls to renovate and expand May Hall, a residence facility which has served the university since 1960. Chancellor Dean Van Galen issued a statement in response to the JFC’s action:

“We thank the Joint Finance Committee, including Senator Sheila Harsdorf, for its vote and for its commitment to increase capital funding across the UW System. In our case, this would authorize student user fees to be utilized to improve the student residence experience in May Hall. Upgrades would include accessibility updates, modernization and much more.

“Pending final approval by the legislature and Governor Walker, we look forward to beginning work on an important project for UW-River Falls. Further, we thank our elected representatives who have worked so hard on behalf of UWRF and appreciate their commitment to helping us fulfill our educational mission.”

Senator Harsdorf also commented on the JFC’s budget approval.

“I am pleased the Joint Committee on Finance recognized the importance of building projects and maintenance on our campuses and I am especially pleased that we were successful in including funding for the work needed on May Hall,” said Harsdorf.