New Jersey Allocates $400 Million in Grants to Improve Higher Education Infrastructure Statewide

54 Projects Across the State Will Receive Funds for Infrastructure and Technology Improvements as Part of Four Revolving Capital Facilities Bond Programs.

On July 10, 2023, the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education in New Jersey announced the allocation of almost $400 million in capital facilities grant funding for 54 projects statewide. 

This funding comes from four revolving Capital Facilities Bond programs and is aimed at addressing the growing infrastructure and technology needs of New Jersey's higher education sector, and improving access to quality postsecondary education.

Governor Phil Murphy expressed the state's commitment to fostering a higher education environment that motivates young minds. 

"By funding capital improvement projects that both revitalize and expand campus offerings, we not only affirm our commitment to high-quality postsecondary education but demonstrate a commitment to growing talent across the Garden State," he said.

The funding is released through the Higher Education Capital Improvement Fund (CIF), the Higher Education Facilities Trust Fund (HEFT), the Higher Education Equipment Leasing Fund (ELF), and the Higher Education Technology Infrastructure Fund (HETI). 

These bond programs, established by the Legislature, are integral to New Jersey's commitment to directly address the financing of facility preservation, renewal, and construction, as well as equipment and technology needs at its higher education institutions.

Sheryl Stitt, Executive Director of the New Jersey Educational Facilities Authority, stated that since 1994, CIF, HEFT, ELF, and HETI grant programs have collectively provided about $1.7 billion in state-backed investment in New Jersey's colleges and universities. 

"The announcement of an additional almost $400 million in grant awards underscores a continued commitment to equipping our higher education institutions with state-of-the-art classrooms, labs, and technological infrastructure that match the world's best," she said.

The nearly $400 million in grant funding will help modernize campus spaces, creating flexible, multi-purpose spaces that can support virtual learning, research, and collaboration, thus enhancing the postsecondary experience in New Jersey.

The allocation of funding from each bond program is as follows:

• Higher Education Capital Improvement Fund (CIF) - $190.9 million for 10 awards
• Higher Education Facilities Trust Fund (HEFT) - $89.6 million for 5 awards
• Higher Education Equipment Leasing Fund (ELF) - $82 million for 25 awards
• Higher Education Technology Infrastructure Fund (HETI) - $32.5 million for 24 awards

Of the 54 projects, eight are receiving funding from two or more of the bond programs, with a total of 64 awards being issued.

Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin emphasized the importance of this investment in maintaining the competitiveness of New Jersey's educational institutions, attracting both local and out-of-state students, and driving economic growth. Assembly Higher Education Committee Chair Mila Jasey and Senator Andrew Zwicker echoed this sentiment, highlighting the investment's role in ensuring New Jersey's colleges and universities continued excellence and providing students with the skills to compete in an ever-evolving workforce.

A complete list of the award recipients can be found here.