UA Regents promote Fairbanks science building

FAIRBANKS - The University of Alaska Board of Regents has approved a capital budget request with a single new construction item: a science facility at the Fairbanks campus.

Meeting Monday in Anchorage, regents resisted calls to add a new sports arena at the UA Anchorage campus to the construction request.

The vote was unanimous for limiting the new construction request to the $88 million science building, which would house classrooms and laboratories. By limiting their request to the science building, along with maintenance and planning money, regents hope to emphasize that the science building is their top priority.

"I think it sends a clear, unambiguous message," said Regent Kirk Wickersham. "I hope it works."

The move represents a major shift in strategy from last year, when regents forwarded a $541.8 million priority list. The first phase of the Life Sciences building was the No. 2 priority, but only $3.2 million from the list was appropriated.

About 10 speakers Monday stressed the need for the UAA athletic complex, including a representative of Anchorage Mayor Dan Sullivan.

A new $80 million sports facility would offer expanded room for athletic teams and allow students to use the existing 30-year-old complex for exercise and intramural sports. Speakers said the Wells Fargo Sports Complex is tired, cramped and outdated.

Jim O'Toole, president of the UAA women's basketball booster club, said the Seawolves do not have facilities comparable to similar-size schools.

"What you're allowing to happen here is an embarrassment," O'Toole said.

Lawmakers designated $15 million for the sports building last year. The money was for planning, site clearing and road work.

The tentative long-term capital plan approved by regents holds off on a funding request for the sports facility for another three to five years.

There was also testimony for new UAA engineering facilities. The program was established in 2005.

The regents' capital request includes $10 million for planning and design of a new engineering building, plus $37.5 million for current maintenance needs and $62.5 million for older maintenance needs.

Regents approved with almost no comment an $820 million operating budget. It includes a $351 million request from the state's general fund, a 6.9 percent increase.