Kaine to propose $1.65 billion bond package for higher education

Richmond (Map, News) - Virginia voters would be asked to approve a $1.65 billion bond package to fund higher education projects under a proposal Gov. Tim Kaine announced Thursday. The proposal, which needs support from the General Assembly before it can go to voters in the fall, would earmark $105 million for George Mason University, including $50 million for a library addition and $49 million to renovate a science and technology building. Northern Virginia Community College would receive $77 million to construct buildings on its Loudoun County and Woodbridge campuses.

“The proposed bond package supports innovative research, providing facilities across Virginia for researchers to develop new, cutting-edge technologies and turn them into commercial assets,” Kaine said during a news conference at Virginia Commonwealth University.

“Our colleges and universities also help us build a work force prepared to compete in a global economy. These investments will help Virginia’s higher education network keep delivering for our future.” While lawmakers from both parties generally support increasing funding for higher education construction, the governor’s proposal will not sail through the General Assembly without scrutiny.

Del. Lacey Putney, I-Bedford, the new chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, said Thursday’s announcement did not appear to include construction funding for several projects in central and southern Virginia that are in the planning stages. Lawmakers are also eager to proceed with construction of additional mental health facilities, he said, which has been discussed in prior years but will take on added importance in the coming General Assembly session in the wake of the April 16 massacre at Virginia Tech.

“Our goal is to ultimately send to the voters for consideration a comprehensive bond package that includes the rebuilding of the mental health facilities as well as addressing the needs of higher education,” Putney said.

Besides the bond package, Kaine said the budget plans he is scheduled to introduce Monday to the legislature’s budget and finance committees will feature a $45 million increase in operational funding for colleges and universities and a $9 million boost for student financial aid.

jrogalsky@dcexaminer.com