DeKALB | On Thursday, the NIU Board of Trustees approved the 2008 capital budget request, representing a wish list for new construction and extensive campus renovations, including long-awaited renovations to the Stevens Building.

The capital budget contains a list of projects for the university that is sent to the Illinois Board of Higher Education. Eventually, the state determines which projects get funding. For several years, NIU’s wish list has remained the same because they have not received funds.

$30.1 million is requested for a new computer science and technology center. The new center would house cutting-edge technology and prepare students for the growing demand in technology-based fields, according to documentation provided by the board.

The Stevens Building, which has been awaiting renovations for nearly 10 years, was allotted $19.1 million on the appropriated capital budget. The building requires a new heating/cooling system, a new roof and asbestos cleansing, among other repairs.

In the same capital request list, other academic buildings would receive ventilation and window replacements, upgrades to the university’s electrical system and the remodeling of Wirtz Hall, totaling over $58 million. Gilbert Hall would be renovated at a projected cost of $18.4 million.

The board also took a moment to recognize University Police Chief Don Grady’s new assignment as senior advisor to the Iraqi minister of the interior, and wished him a sincere farewell.

“Chief, I will not say goodbye today, but god-speed,” said board chair Barbara Giorgi Vella.

The board also approved measures that would allow the Collegiate Housing Foundation to enter into a ground lease toward the construction of housing for students with dependents. The board did not specify the amount of money this would take.

Though local residents have expressed concern over the project’s possible expansion, President John Peters made clear the board’s intention.

“Our policy is replacement and improvement,” he said.

Tom Scherschel is a Campus Reporter for the Northern Star.