Features: Dec. 11, 2001

Trustees Approve $255 Million Construction Project

Initiative Features New Buildings for Biotechnology and Electronic Arts

The Institute's plan for new construction totaling $255 million has been approved by the Board of Trustees.

The plan calls for building a center for biotechnology and interdisciplinary studies, a center for electronic media and performing arts, a parking garage, a boiler plant, a chiller plant, and related improvements to campus landscaping and infrastructure.

Click here for full-size image of South Campus Site Plan

The construction projects, along with the Institute's unprecedented investment in faculty (with more than 50 new professors slated to be hired in this year alone) undergird Rensselaer's intention to be a leader in solving global problems through research, teaching, and technology transfer, said President Jackson.

"They will certainly advance Rensselaer's contribution to scientific inquiry, economic development, and cultural enrichment in the Capital Region. Even more important, they will strengthen our ability to respond to medical, social, and economic needs throughout the nation and around the world," Jackson said.

"Our approval of these extensive construction projects advances Rensselaer's mission to serve as a world-class leader in technological research and education in the 21st century," said Samuel Heffner Jr. '56, chairman of the Rensselaer Board of Trustees. "It is a major step toward the realization of The Rensselaer Plan, which has been developed and advanced under Dr. Jackson's visionary leadership."