The University System of New Hampshire voted Friday to put $54 million toward building renovations and acquisitions at UNH’s Durham Campus.
$37 million will be spent renovating Hamilton Smith Hall, which houses UNH’s English Department, ESOL, Journalism and writing programs. The building has not been renovated in more than 30 years, and does not meet all disability and safety standards.
Another $10 million will go toward expanding the Holloway Commons dining facility, and $4.5 million toward a new swimming pool. That pool will replace Durham’s 80 year old outdoor community pool.
Chair of the University System’s board of trustees, Pamela Diamantis, says the investments approved Friday do not use state funds and calls them important to student recruitment and satisfaction.
Earlier this year, the school approved $20 million toward a new sports complex. That project drew criticism from lawmakers.