The University of Minnesota Board of Regents on Friday voted to advance a capital funding request that includes $150 million for a new academic building at the University of Minnesota Rochester. The project is the top bonding priority for the University of Minnesota, and would support enrollment growth, workforce development, and academic and research opportunities for the university and the city.

Senator Carla Nelson (Rochester) issued the following statement:

“I applaud the University of Minnesota Board of Regents for recognizing the importance of this project and taking this key step forward. I have been a strong supporter of UMN and UMR for a long time, and I believe deeply in their mission to prepare the next generation of leaders. 

“I carried funding for a UMR academic building in 2025, which set the stage for what we are seeing today. This investment will help UMR keep up with enrollment demands, it will lead to even stronger partnerships between UMR and regional businesses, it will create new opportunities for students and researchers, and it will support Rochester’s continued economic innovation. I can’t wait to see it continue moving forward!”