Educational Bond Could Mean Millions For NMSU

Next month, New Mexico residents will have the opportunity to make a positive difference for the state's universities and colleges.

The General Obligation Bond for Education would allocate nearly $118 million for capital improvements to colleges and universities across the state. If it's approved, $22 million would benefit New Mexico State University. Half of the money would be used to renovate Gardiner Hall, the home of the Physics Department, which is about 50 years old.

"There have been a couple of problems with asbestos removal in a couple of the classrooms. Compared to the many of other buildings [on campus] Gardiner Hall is just pretty outdated and maybe not all that safe," said NMSU student, Trevor Stevens.

Robert Czerniak, associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, pointed out that "the building is so old that the infrastructure to a certain extent are worn out."

The remodeling of the physics building will result in a science quadrangle at the university. It's a cross-collaboration university officials agreed would make a positive difference among students. It would also make it easier for students to take the classes they need without having to walk across campus for a lesson.