Posted on: Friday, November 19, 2004
Regents let projects proceed
| • | University of Hawai'i may boost role in defense |
By Beverly Creamer
Advertiser Education Writer
The University of Hawai'i Board of Regents has cleared the way for $340 million or more in construction over the next four years.
The work includes Phase I of a West O'ahu campus in Kapolei, new or renovated dorms at Manoa and a new Cancer Research Center in Kaka'ako.
With approval to seek developers for a public/private partnership on all three major projects, the university has launched one of its most significant building booms in recent memory.
Regents said they're moving fast because costs are skyrocketing as the economy improves and the military looks at a major infusion of building in the state.
In giving approval to seek proposals for the dorms and developers' qualifications for West O'ahu and the Cancer Center, regents took major steps yesterday to provide improved housing at the largest campus, education opportunities for families in the growing Kapolei area, and more comprehensive cancer care for the whole community.
Costs will be borne by private developers chosen for the projects. Estimates are: $40 million for the first phase of replacing or renovating the dormitories called Frear, Johnson and Gateway halls; $100 million for Phase I of West O'ahu; and $200 million for a cancer center.
Occupancy of the first phase of the dorms is proposed for spring of 2007; and completion of both the cancer center and Phase I of West O'ahu by fall 2008.
