Georgia Southern University was shown support in the state of Georgia’s budget for the 2020 fiscal year, signed by Governor Brian P. Kemp earlier this May, with the funding of three major projects.

State budgets provide a detailed financial plan for the fiscal year based on the state’s needs. State budgets are continually monitored through a budget cycle to ensure that funding needs are met.

“Each of these projects are critical to Georgia Southern University’s progress,” President Kyle Marrero said in a press release. “We are delighted the governor and especially our local legislative delegation support and recognize the important role these initiatives play in helping our students succeed, and in helping our region thrive.”

The budget offers $5.2 million in equipment for the new 135,000-square-foot Engineering and Research Building, which will feature real-world laboratories for students and faculty members. This new research facility will be available to the university’s manufacturing, civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering programs.

$5 million dollars will be set aside in the budget to renovate the Armstrong campus’ Pirate Athletic Center. Renovating this 32,465-square-foot facility shows the intent of the university to further aid student success and provide academic advising and support.

$3.8 million dollars will be provided by the state to further expand the partnership between East Georgia State College and GS. The Nessmith-Lane Center on the GS Statesboro Campus will undergo renovations to provide a better space for tutoring, academic advising and academic classes for EGSC students.

Students at EGSC Statesboro will have easier travels to and from the two campuses as well as minor renovations to the current campus.

Sarah Smith, The George-Anne News Editor, ganewsed@georgiasouthern.edu