Today@Sam: Regents Approve SHSU Projects

Installation of a new roof on Johnson Coliseum, the purchase of equipment for the renovated Lowman Student Center, new computers for faculty and students, and increases in housing and food service rates were approved Friday for Sam Houston State University; of note:

• The board voted to table a motion to change the name of Southwest Texas State University to Texas State University. Nancy Neal of Lubbock, who offered the motion to table, said she felt the issue should be delayed until the selection of a new Southwest Texas president is made.
• A total of $1.25 million will be spent on dining furniture, dining equipment, signage and graphics for brand franchises in the Lowman Student Center, as well as general furniture and fixtures. All are expected to be fully operational in August.
• Approval was also given to a project to seek proposals for the installation of a $1.3 million copper metal roof on Johnson Coliseum, which has had three roof replacements in its 26 year history. Winning bidder for the new roof will be asked to provide a 20-year warranty.
• A contract for $730,000 was also awarded for construction of two new parking lots, and the university was authorized to award contracts for another two lots when the bid process is completed in late February or early March. The four new lots are expected to be completed for use during the Fall 2002 Semester, and will add 500 spaces.
• Also approved was a project with an estimated cost of $50,000 for the demolition of the industrial education laboratory and metals laboratory facilities, which is being replaced by an Industrial Technology Laboratory. Both will be demolished after their activities have been transferred to the new facility.