PROGRESS

Plans Announced for Academic, Athletic Facilities

		Project rendering

University of Nebraska-Lincoln officials in November announced plans to increase research space as well as renovate and add to Athletic Department facilities. The joint announcement, packaging academic and athletic projects together was unique and historic, according to Chancellor Harvey Perlman.

"I fully recognize that obtaining state funding for any of these projects is unlikely; nonetheless these facilities are critical to the success of the programs they house and they represent our hope that we can secure donor support, and in some instances, federal funds to make each of these a reality," Perlman said in November.

The projects include a new building dedicated to virology research, new athletics offices, locker rooms, training facilities, and additional seating and fan amenities at Memorial Stadium, and renovation of the South Stadium athletics offices into space for the Department of Computer Science and Engineering.

"This project is focused on the people we care about the most, our student-athletes and our fans," said Steve Pederson, UNL athletic director.

The conversion of South Stadium will negate the need to build a new structure to relieve overcrowding in computer science and engineering courses and labs.

"This will go a long way in alleviating those space concerns," said Richard Sincovec, chairman of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering.

The new virology building will be sited on East Campus to take advantage of infrastructure already in place and to locate the scientists near an existing core of researchers.

"The investment in a new virology building will benefit Nebraska's economy and add to our growing reputation as a leader in research," said Prem Paul, vice chancellor for research.

The projects will be funded by a private fund-raising effort as part of the University of Nebraska Foundation's overall plan to address the university's building and academic priorities.

COMPUTER SCIENCE & ENGINEERING | HUSKERS