USI Presidential Search >> Development of Physical Facilities

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Development of Physical Facilities

master plan of university Since its founding, a significant investment has been made in physical facilities, presently valued at $225 million. A dramatic improvement in facilities has been accomplished since 1995. A $4.1 million expansion of the University Center was completed in 1997. A $15.2 million Liberal Arts Center opened in fall 1999; a $4 million Recreation and Fitness Center opened in spring 2001; a $23.1 million Science and Education Center opened in summer 2003; and the new Rice Library, a $27.5 million project, opened in summer 2006. Four residence halls, constructed at a cost of $22.6 million, have been added since 1999, and a $1.5 million recreational building in student housing is under construction. Improvements also have been made to the spectator facilities in the Physical Activities Center and the outdoor athletic fields. The new $1.1 million Kenneth P. McCutchan Art Center and the Palmina F. and Stephen S. Pace Galleries will open in September 2008. Projects approved for funding and under design include a $31 million Business and Engineering Center, a $7.75 million expansion of the Recreation and Fitness Center, a $17.7 million expansion of the University Center, and a nearly $1 million Ceramics Center. The University has no deferred maintenance issues and has adequate land for expansion. In 2007, the physical facilities master plan was updated.