The P3 (public–private partnership) concept is getting a tryout at the University of Kansas, where state funding for construction has fallen from 20% of project costs to about 11% over the last 10 years, according to James Modig, KU’s University Architect and Director of Design and Construction Management.
Despite those cutbacks, the university has $352 million worth of building projects in design or under construction this year, up from $100–150 million annually in recent years, says Modig.
Kansas is in the RFP stage of its first P3 project, a new “gateway” housing facility that will be a key component of KU’s Central District Plan, the centerpiece of its 2014–2024 Campus Master Plan.
In addition to providing capital funds, the owner will maintain the building during the projected 30-year lease. With a $300 million maintenance backlog and an annual maintenance budget of only $9.4 million, having a developer assume maintenance costs will be a welcome innovation, says Modig.
Learn more about P3 and other creative project financing strategies in BD+C's Special Report, “How your firm can help struggling colleges and universities meet their building project goals.”
Related Stories
| May 24, 2018
Accelerate Live! talk: Security and the built environment: Insights from an embassy designer
In this 15-minute talk at BD+C’s Accelerate Live! conference (May 10, 2018, Chicago), embassy designer Tom Jacobs explores ways that provide the needed protection while keeping intact the representational and inspirational qualities of a design.
University Buildings | May 22, 2018
NC State University’s transparent engineering building has ‘engineering on display’ around every corner
Clark Nexsen designed the new building.
University Buildings | May 15, 2018
South Dakota State University to receive new apartment and townhouse neighborhood
The units will house juniors, seniors, and graduate students.
Sports and Recreational Facilities | May 15, 2018
Is this the most environmentally sustainable arena in the country?
The university arena was designed by Architectural Resources Cambridge.
Sponsored | University Buildings | May 7, 2018
Metal composite materials engineer sound and inspire bold designs
University Buildings | May 3, 2018
Williams College bookstore is a LEED Platinum space for more than just books
CambridgeSeven designed the campus bookstore.
Art Galleries | Apr 23, 2018
VCU’s Institute for Contemporary Art officially opens
Steven Holl Architects designed the building.
University Buildings | Apr 19, 2018
University of Minnesota’s Pioneer Hall to receive $104.5 million renovation/addition
The original building was no longer functional for modern day purposes.
Sports and Recreational Facilities | Apr 19, 2018
Northwestern’s new multi-sport training facility offers expansive views of Lake Michigan
Perkins+Will designed the facility.
University Buildings | Apr 18, 2018
University of Hawaii’s new Administration & Allied Health Building nears completion
Perkins+Will’s LA Studio designed the building.
