For the City Times

STEVENS POINT – The state budget, recently signed  by Gov. Tony Evers, includes funding to replace UWSP’s Albertson Hall.

“We are grateful the governor and Wisconsin Legislature recognized the critical need to address serious problems with Albertson Hall. Replacing this hub of learning and student support will ensure safety, efficiency and opportunity for UW-Stevens Point students,” said UWSP Chancellor Thomas Gibson. “Our thanks as well to the many students, employees and supporters who advocated for this project with Regents and legislators.”

The capital budget includes funding for the full replacement cost of $96 million.

“Albertson has been a UW-Stevens Point priority because of the deteriorating condition of the structure, fire suppression and HVAC systems. During the pre-design phase, architects discovered additional structural issues that significantly increased renovation costs, exceeding 90 percent of the building’s value. When UW System President Tommy Thompson toured Albertson in April, he called it the System’s top priority for replacement,” a UWSP release stated.

The project must be officially accepted by the UW Board of Regents, and construction needs State Building Commission approval. These next steps are expected by year-end.

“Plans continue for relocation of services and building design. Most services will continue to be available in Albertson Hall through the end of the spring 2022 semester. All Albertson offices be vacated by mid-July 2022, and the library collection will move sooner, said Allison Henke, UW-Stevens Point campus planner,” the release added.

“Most library and student support services will be temporarily relocated to other academic buildings. Construction is expected to be completed by 2025.

“An architectural rendering of the new, more efficient building – about one-third smaller than the existing footprint – will take shape by year’s end. “