Seward: Hccc Gets New Campus Project

Senator James L. Seward today announced that Herkimer County Community College's science lab renovation project has been funded as part of SUNY's new five year capital plan in the new state budget. The bill will be passed today, April 9.

The community college will receive $1.1 million in SUNY funding in the state's 2008-2009 budget for its science laboratory wing of Johnson Hall on the Herkimer campus. The entire project will cost $2.2 million. The state will pay half and local resources will cover the balance.

"This is good news for HCCC, the county, the Mohawk Valley, faculty and students," Senator Seward said. "As a member of the Senate Higher Education Committee, I fought to include the project in the SUNY five year capital plan because it is a campus priority and will provide a much needed boost to the campus -- making it more attractive to students and its renovation helping the local economy."

"The funds secured by Senator Seward for the science labs renovation project ensure that Herkimer County Community College will continue to provide quality education for our students," said Dean of Administration Nicholas Laino. "The science faculty and staff will be afforded state of the art facilities to continue to shape the minds of our students. We are grateful for the support and partnership of Senator Seward, over the years he has continued to show tremendous support for Herkimer County Community College and higher education in our region."

"To continue Herkimer County Community College's tradition of excellence, our students need the proper equipment and facilities," said Assemblyman Marc Butler (R/C/I - Newport). "In this difficult budget year, I'm pleased that we were able to include funding for those valuable resources that will pay great dividends in the future."

The project involves renovating the science laboratory wing of Johnson Hall at the campus. The four labs outfitted for the study of geology, physics, chemistry and biology will be remodeled to included plumbing, electrical and HVAC upgrades; furnishings and equipment, and construction of new space. The funding will also help pay for the costs engineering, architecture, abatement of hazardous material and any related demolition/disposal costs.

Seward notified Dean of Administration Nicholas Laino Tuesday night.

The funding is part of a new SUNY five year capital plan. Projects are bonded by the state university.

Seward has been instrumental in winning projects for the campus.