WMU board to consider resolution to receive state funding for Dunbar Hall renovation at special board meeting Thursday

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The Western Michigan University Board of Trustees will consider a resolution to receive state funding for the renovation of Dunbar Hall when it meets in a public special virtual session Thursday, May 19, at 1 p.m. The livestream is available at wmich.edu/trustees.

The $42 million renovation of Dunbar Hall will develop a state-of-the-art, 21st century learning environment for students. Project work involves reconfiguring classroom layouts, student workspaces and major technology upgrades for teaching and learning. The building will also be upgraded to maximize energy efficiency and better align with WMU’s sustainability mission. The project is set to wrap up in fall 2023.

The state of Michigan will provide $30 million of the total project costs—a process governed by the State Building Authority (SBA). In these routine transactions, the SBA requires ownership of the building in order to lawfully fund the project. The SBA will lease the building back to the University during this time until the work is complete and the debts paid. The University will then resume ownership of the building.

In order to complete this transaction, the Board of Trustees will need to approve the resolution including the documents necessary to transfer ownership to the SBA.

Individuals who wish to address the board regarding the action item slated for the special meeting must notify Dr. Kahler Schuemann by 5 p.m. Wednesday, May 18. For additional details, find the board’s full agenda online.

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