STATEHOUSE (April 19, 2024) – Purdue University may move forward on nine capital projects following a meeting of the State Budget Committee on Friday, including the new, $168 million Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business Building, according to area lawmakers.
The West Lafayette campus received the greenlight from the State Budget Committee on a range of projects, totaling more than $224 million, including updates to help expand academic programs and housing opportunities. Funding is made available from a combination of sources including gifts and university dollars.
"As a leader in innovation, technology and research, Purdue University continues to drive academic excellence and economic growth in our communities," said State Rep. Sharon Negele (R-Attica). "With projects like improvements to housing and the expansion of the high-quality business program, these capital projects will help attract future leaders."
Negele said over $183 million in total will go toward the demolition, land purchase and construction of the new Mitchell E. Daniels Jr. School of Business Building, set to open in April of 2027. The building will feature seven floors of classrooms, research labs and flexible instruction space. To accommodate the 164,000-square-foot building, the Graduate House Parking Garage will be demolished and .44 acres will be purchased from the Wesley Foundation.
"These projects will greatly improve the college experience for Purdue University students," said State Rep. Mark Genda (R-Frankfort). "As one of the Midwest's top-ranked colleges, Purdue has been offering an exceptional education for more than 150 years. Keeping the facilities up to date is key to making sure the university stays relevant in the ever-evolving world of higher education."
Purdue University West Lafayette may proceed with the 24-month lease of Third and West to provide 984 beds for two academic years, and the school will also renew the Fuse West Lafayette lease to provide 175 beds into 2026.
Upgrades are also planned for the Burke Boilermaker Aquatic Center, including repair and replacement of mechanical systems.
"Purdue University not only provides students with an outstanding education but also offers many hands-on learning opportunities and the chance to get involved in the community," said State Rep. Heath VanNatter (R-Kokomo). "I'm looking forward to seeing how these investments further prepare students for the workforce and benefit our area and state."
In addition to supporting university projects, the State Budget Committee released over $6.3 million in state funding for the Indiana Veterans Home to address structural and mechanical issues in the residence halls, offices and outer buildings. Negele, Genda and VanNatter voted in support of the funding as part of the current state budget.
Visit in.gov/sba/budget-committee for more information about the projects reviewed by the State Budget Committee, as well as view agendas and archived meetings.
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State Rep. Sharon Negele (R-Attica) represents House District 13,
which includes all of Benton and Warren counties, and portions of
Fountain, Jasper, Montgomery, Newton, Tippecanoe and White counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Mark Genda (R-Frankfort) represents House District 41,
which includes portions of Boone, Clinton, Montgomery and Tippecanoe counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Heath VanNatter (R-Kokomo) represents House District 38,
which includes all of Carroll and Tipton counties, and
portions of Cass, Clinton, Howard and Tippecanoe counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
