University of Wisconsin-Superior Improvements for Clough Gates Physical Education Building

The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request that the legislature include construction funds of approximately $13.3 million in the 2001-2003 biennial budget for remodeling and building an addition to the Clough Gates Physical Education Building at the University of Wisconsin-Superior.

In the state's 1999-2001 biennial budget, the State Building Commission allocated planning dollars toward an addition to the Clough Gates Physical Education Building and for remodeling the current facility. We are grateful for the planning funds, and the planning stage is proceeding extremely well.

The state's contribution to the project was estimated at $11.5 million in the 1999-2001 budget, and the Department of Facilities Development (DFD) revised state contribution estimate for the 2000-2003 budget was nearly $15.3 billion. the DFD, consulting architects and campus leaders worked hard to hone the project to bring costs down, and succeeded in reducing the state's cost by $2 million. Using current construction costs and accurate project statement needs, the new estimated state contribution is $13.3 million. The total construction estimate is $15.6 million.

As the campus awaits confirmation of state construction dollars, alumni and friends of the institution are contributing private funds toward the project. As of January 1, 2001 more than $1.2 million has been pledged toward the project. Students have already committed $1 million of their fees toward the construction. The $13.3 million figure is the minimum state contribution required to ensure project completion. The campus is prepared to commence construction in 2002.

Each semester more than half of all students enroll in health performance and promotion courses. There simply isn't enough space in the Gates building to accommodate those courses. Additionally, the facility cannot handle the growing demand for physical training, athletic training, and campus and community recreation. The addition/renovation is the number one UW-Superior building improvement priority.

The people of Northwest Wisconsin appreciate the beneficial impact that the facility enhancements will have on the region. A health and wellness center addition, combined with extensive building remodeling, will support the current and future needs of a vibrant, healthy citizenry. Please support the full funding request for construction dollars in the capital portion of the 2001-2003 budget.