For Immediate Release
July 29, 2003

Contact Information: James Grant
Communications Director
(209) 724-4406 or (209) 658-4406
e-mail: james.grant@ucop.edu

UC Merced Construction: Full Speed Ahead
Secured funding keeps buildings on track

Merced -- The campus job-site of the University of California, Merced, continues buzzing with construction projects as the university proceeds in the preparation of the buildings that will serve future students.

The $280 million in capital projects, the bulk of which was secured through lease revenue bonds funding in 2001-02, provides financial support for the first phase of construction, including site preparation, infrastructure, and four buildings.

The construction funding is providing much-needed economic stimulus to the region and will create about 500 on-site construction jobs, 500 construction supply and support positions, and 500 jobs in the service industry.

UC Merced plays a critical role in the long-term growth plans for the University of California and remains committed to providing another point of access to the UC system and to serving the students of the Central Valley.

Recent photographs taken at the campus job-site can be viewed at: http://www.ucmerced.edu/news_articles/07112003_campus_construction_photos.asp.

# # #