GREEN BAY – Construction of the new library at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay has been given the green light after the State Building Commission approved about $262 million this week for major projects across Wisconsin.
According to a press release from Governor Tony Evers, the UWGB will build a new five-story Cofrin Technology and Education Center.
The cost will be $101 million, according to UWGB Chancellor Michael Alexander, more than the $96.3 million approved in the 2021 state budget.
“This landmark project will house the library, campus administration, and the Student Success and First Nations Education departments,” the governor’s press release said. “The new building will feature sustainable elements such as a green roof, solar panels and natural landscaping.”
Alexander told the Press-Gazette that Cofrin would be a great improvement to the campus as the current building was in poor condition and falling apart.
“The current building is in disrepair and was designed to be the perfect library for the early 1970s. The library is currently the centerpiece of our facility,” Alexander said. “We want it to reflect how education is evolving in the future.”
Construction is scheduled to begin in spring 2025. Alexander also told the Press-Gazette that the improved library is expected to be completed in February 2027. The old library will then be demolished.
Rashad Alexander can be contacted at [email protected].
