Senator Schumer Helps in Funding Push for New UC Construction Management Building
Schumer visited campus on Monday to pledge his support for UC's Construction Management program and its new facility.
Utica College has already raised $2.8 million in private and state funds to support the construction of a new state-of-the-art facility to house the rapidly growing Construction Management program. The total project, however, is expected to cost $4.1 million.
On Monday, Feb. 19, U.S Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer visited UC to launch a push to help fill that funding gap.
During a brief news conference in Carbone Auditorium, Schumer pledged to support the college's application for funding from the federal Economic Development Agency (EDA), which provides grants to communities to stimulate job retention and growth.
“With the supply of construction industry jobs expected to grow over the next several years, Utica College’s Construction Management program aims to meet that demand by equipping students with the tools they need to be successful in the future,” said Schumer. “That is why I am asking the EDA to ‘put cash on the nail’ and approve this investment so Utica College’s Construction Management Training Center can become a reality.”
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has also pledged her support for the project funding. In their letter of support to the EDA, Schumer and GIllibrand explain that the new facility will positively affect workforce development by helping Utica College graduate well-prepared, versatile construction management professionals who will increase the value of the Mohawk Valley’s human capital and add to its vitality and growth.
"Utica College provides the link between good-paying jobs and the skills that are needed," said Schumer. "I promise you today I'm going to do everything I can to get funds for this great program."
Schumer’s comments were met with cheers from the many Construction Management students and faculty members in attendance, as well as Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri and Senator Joseph Griffo.
Utica College President Laura Casamento also spoke and thanked Schumer for his support.
“We are grateful that Senator Schumer strongly supports our application to the Economic Development Agency, as this new facility will provide our students with the resources and technologies they need to excel in an industry that is vital to the economic revitalization of our region and our state."
