Stoffer Hall Project
The Stoffer Hall Project
Stoffer Hall, Washburn University's science facility, opened in 1960. In April 2003, a committee was formed to evaluate the science program and facilities at Washburn University.
The committee developed a detailed science facilities program statement that included a recommendation to improve the science facilities at Washburn University.
In October 2004, the Board of Regents approved the program statement, which included a total project budget of $10,000,000, with University reserves and fundraising efforts identified as the source of funds. The Board also authorized the administration to begin the architect selection process for the project.
In January 2005, Gould Evans was awarded a $824,375 contract for basic architecture fees.
The scope of the project, as determined in consultation with the architects includes an addition of 20,935 gross square feet and the renovation of Stoffer Hall. Approved construction alternates include a new elevator, a storefront in the lobby, a green roof, ceramic tile in the restrooms, window coverings, and seminar tables in the lecture halls.
The Stoffer Hall Budget
November 19, 2003. In an information item to the Board of Regents it was stated that "Renovation with the addition of space could range between $8-$12 million."
October 08, 2004. The projected total project budget of $10 million is detailed in the program statement that was approved by the Board.
January 14, 2005. The architect contract was awarded to Gould Evans based upon a $10 million construction amount. The total project cost was not referenced at this meeting.
May 13, 2005. Based upon the scope of the project developed in consultation with the architects, the total project cost is now $14,651,484. The budget includes $12,425,438 for total construction costs, $1,976,046 for furnishings, architect/engineering fees, telecommunications and equipment, and $250,000 for asbestos abatement. The budget was approved by the Board on a 2-0-5 vote, with two members approving and five members abstaining.
May 12, 2006.The Board approved an increase of the project budget to $14.9 million and authorized the architects to proceed to bidding the project.
July 28, 2006.A construction contract was awarded to Ferrell Construction for $11.2 million. Although this wasn't the low bid, Ferrell was put forth as the most responsive, responsible bidder.
Sources of Funds
The sources of funds will be a combination of University reserves and fundraising. Even as the total project costs have grown from $10 million to $14.9 million, the fundraising component projection remains at $2 million (with $692,927 raised through 09/30/06).
A significant portion of the project will be funded with proceeds from the 0.65% retail sales tax. Sales tax proceeds of $2.9 million were transferred into the Building Construction Fund for the Stoffer Renovation in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2004. This preceded the Board's approval of the program statement by more than three months.
The remaining funds will be provided from University reserves. The June 30, 2004 audit report shows unrestricted reserves of $20.9 million, a $1.6 decline from the June 30, 2003 balance. In addition to the $1.3 million approved by the Board for WEA renovation, the remaining Stoffer Project balance of $9.7 million will reduce the University reserves by over 50%.