Governor’s budget plan includes
$19 million for Stevens Building renovation

The budget plan for the coming year proposed by Gov. Rod Blagojevich includes more than $19 million for renovation and expansion of NIU's Stevens Building.

The governor’s fiscal 2008 budget recommendation announced last week also includes an increase of nearly $2 million in operating funds for NIU.

“We’re pleased with Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s budget proposal,” NIU President John Peters said. “We’re encouraged to see the governor recognizes the need for necessary capital improvements at NIU and universities across the state. Renovation of the Stevens Building has long been a top priority for NIU, and we’ve worked diligently to make it a top priority in Springfield as well.

“I look forward to working with members of the Illinois General Assembly as they further consider the governor’s budget request,” Peters added.

Long in need of major repairs, the Stevens Building houses facilities and classrooms for the Department of Anthropology and the School of Theatre and Dance, including the O’Connell, Players and Corner theaters.

The governor’s budget request for an increase to the university’s general fund calls for an increase of 1.9 percent, to $105.9 million. “We’re also glad to see that the governor increased the Illinois Board of Higher Education’s general fund recommendation for NIU from a base budget increase of 1.5 percent to 1.9 percent,” Peters said. “The extra funding is needed.”

3-13-07