State panel approves new science building for UWL

The State Building Commission has approved the design and construction of UWL’s new Science Labs Building and the renovation of the Center for the Arts main entrance with the addition of an ADA elevator. This is the final approval needed for both projects to move forward.

A new science facility will address a lack of space and severely deteriorating infrastructure in Cowley Hall. When the facility was built in 1963, and added on to in 1968, fewer science programs were offered at UW-L. The approximately 188 thousand square foot building will be constructed on the parking lot north of the existing Cowley Hall, commuter lot 3. Construction on the $82 million project, funded by state tax dollars, is scheduled to begin in spring 2016 and be completed in winter 2018.

The $1.4 million renovation project at the entrance of Center for the Arts will resolve safety hazards, accessibility issues and a failing retaining wall. Construction is scheduled to begin in fall 2015 and be completed in early 2016.