MEDIA RELEASE

Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced Thursday the release of $83.9 million for capital improvement projects at University of Hawaii campuses systemwide.

“These priority projects are investments in the state’s economy and vitality. They address needed maintenance and repair work and create jobs, while expanding affordable, academic opportunities for residents,” Abercrombie said. “This is especially the case for the new UH Palamanui campus, which will serve as an anchor in the community and increase access to higher education opportunities in West Hawaii.”

Allotment of funds for the following projects were identified by members of the state Legislature and approved by the governor:

* $50 million — Systemwide Capital Renewal and Deferred Maintenance — Planning, design and construction for repair and maintenance projects at UH Manoa ($37,606,000), UH Hilo ($1,938,000), UH West Oahu ($41,000), UH Community Colleges ($10,164,000) and other projects systemwide ($251,000)

* $28 million — Systemwide Health, Safety and Code Requirements — Design and construction for health and safety projects at UH Manoa ($5,085,000), UH Hilo ($9,400,000), and UH Community Colleges ($13,515,000); projects include structural repairs, lighting, traffic safety, electrical system upgrades, and other safety and code requirements

$3.5 million — University of Hawaii West Oahu — Design and construction for Road B connection to Kualakai Parkway, a second entry/exit to the campus; it will consist of a paved, landscaped four-lane roadway and provide access to water, sewer and drainage systems (Road A, which has been completed, connects to Farrington Highway and serves as the main entrance to the campus)

* $2.4 million — University of Hawaii Palamanui Campus, Phase I, Hawaii Island — Construction to complete Phase I of the Palamanui campus in West Hawaii; funds will be used to complete the simultaneous construction of Phases 1A (Culinary Arts Building) and 1B (Health Science and Student Services Building)