UNM needs bond funds to renovate

New Mexico voters will decide whether to approve a bond that could mean a major facelift to UNM’s biology and chemistry departments.

In November, New Mexico voters will vote on the $114.5 million General Obligation Bond C, $19 million of which would go toward construction at UNM.

UNM would use $16 million for a large-scale renovation of Clark Hall, which houses the chemistry department, and $3 million to complete construction to Castetter Hall, which houses the biology department. Construction on Castetter Hall began in 2010, but the building remained unfinished after construction funds ran dry.

Renovations to Clark Hall and Castetter Hall are part of the University’s 10-15 year Consolidated Master Plan.

UNM is conducting a facility scan — evaluating the conditions of buildings on campus to decide whether to update or demolish. While the scan is not entirely complete, Provost Chaouki Abdallah said Clark Hall and Castetter Hall seem to be the University’s top priorities.

If the bond passes, construction could begin as early as next year. The bond funds would be split among 26 higher education institutions.

University Planning Officer Mary Kenney said the facility scan will help put the bond funds to effective use in a difficult economic environment.

“When we address some of the condition issues on our campus, it’s going to be important for us to understand, based on the academic plan and the strategic plan of the new president, where we are going to focus our resources because there’s just not enough money to go around and do everything we need to do,” she said.

University Architect Robert Doran said after the unfinished floor of Castetter Hall is complete, it will include new teaching laboratories and offices.

Kenney said Clark Hall needs major work, including structural renovations, interior updating and exterior remodeling.

“We believe that we can really bring a whole new life to chemistry,” she said. “Chemistry is one of those foundational programs that feed pharmacy, nursing, School of Medicine and biology. It’s an essential building that needs to have renewal so that we can serve our students better and make sure that faculty have labs and offices that are appropriate for teaching.”