Contact: Steven Michels, (608) 266-7362
Madison – Today, the Department of Administration released the Agency’s Request and Governor’s Recommendations for the 2017-19 Capital Budget. Governor Walker’s Capital Budget includes recommendations for the long-range biennial public building program. The budget recommends $803 million in total projects with under $450 million in new bonding.
“The Operating and Capital Budgets propose the lowest combined new bond authorizations in 20 years,” Governor Walker said. “From education to workforce, the Reform Dividend allows us to invest in our priorities while maintaining the infrastructure and assets we currently have.”
The Capital Budget prioritizes investment in current facilities and limits new construction by funding over $360 million in the all agency program. This includes funding for the University of Wisconsin System’s number one enumeration request for facility maintenance and repair.
Highlights of the Capital Budget include:
- $5 million in funding for a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Innovation Center in Green Bay. The center will also house the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay’s new baccalaureate degree program, mechanical engineering.
- A $75 million replacement for the Department of Justice Milwaukee crime lab. The criminal investigation and forensic science operations include space for controlled substances/drugs, toxicology, DNA analysis, forensic imaging, evidence processing, and law enforcement training.
- Over $33 million to renovate and repair the north, south, and west resident towers in Sandburg Hall at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
- $5 million in funding for St. Ann Center for Intergenerational Care for the Bucyrus Campus project. This includes an Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Unit, an Overnight Respite Care Unit, and Childcare Classrooms.
- $5 million to remodel and expand the La Crosse Center. The 36-year-old facility is in need of upgrades to accommodate the heavy use and requires additional space for conventions, meetings, and banquets.
- An additional $11 million to remove and replace the Little Falls Dam at Willow River State Park.
The State Building Commission will meet to decide on these recommendations in March. The 2017-19 Governor’s Capital Budget recommendations can be found here.
