$64 million building project moves forward

Another major construction project at Indiana State University is one step closer to reality following action by the university's Board of Trustees.

Board members authorized today the university administration to seek state approval to move forward with the renovation and expansion of the Health and Human Services Building, formerly known as the Arena Building.

State legislation passed earlier this year allows the university to issue up to $64 million in student fee replacement bonds to finance modernization of the building constructed in the 1960s. However, the Indiana Commission for Higher Education, State Budget Agency and Gov. Mike Pence must still sign off on the project.

Work will include major upgrades to improve temperature control and air quality in the building as well as technology improvements. Interior space will be reconfigured to enable academic programs to function more efficiently and meet requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The project also includes an 87,000-square-foot expansion to house new academic programs and accommodate existing programs now housed elsewhere on the Indiana State campus.

In his report to the board, university President Dan Bradley cited what he called "phenomenal" compliance with the "It's on Blue" sexual assault prevention campaign. Nearly 90 percent of undergraduate students have completed mandatory online training, with compliance even higher among some groups: 100 percent for student-athletes, 97 percent for fraternity and sorority students and those living in campus housing and 96 percent for freshmen. Also, 98 percent of university employees have completed the training. Bradley said efforts continue to achieve full compliance.

Also on Thursday, the ISU Board of Trustees:

• Approved a revised investment policy to add further flexibility and diversification to the university's portfolio

• Approved a modification of university policy concerning the director of equal opportunity and Title IX coordinator to correct a clerical error in the policy passed earlier this year.

Photo: http://photos.indstate.edu/Campus-Scenes/Buildings01/Arena/i-RcNZFgr/0/X3/August%2028%2C%202014arena%20south%20gym5529-X3.jpg - Indiana State University's Health and Human Services Building is in line for a $64 million renovation and expansion.

Media contact and writer: Dave Taylor, media relations director, Office of Communications and Marketing, Indiana State University, 812-237-3743 or dave.taylor@indstate.edu