State University Construction Fund: Managing SUNY Infrastructure
The State University Construction Fund is a specialized New York State public-benefit corporation dedicated to the physical growth and maintenance of the State University of New York (SUNY) and its affiliated institutions. Established in 1962, the Fund serves as a critical financial and planning bridge, ensuring that the university's physical environment evolves to meet academic and residential needs.
The primary mission of the Fund is to act as an agent for the university, securing the necessary funding for new buildings and infrastructure. By streamlining the process from the initial determination of need to the final completion of a project, the Fund helps reduce the time it takes for students and faculty to access essential facilities.
Key Facts
- Established: 1962
- Purpose: Provides academic buildings, dormitories, and other facilities for SUNY.
- Leadership: Chaired by Eric Corngold.
- Governance: Managed by a three-person Board of Trustees.
- Headquarters: 353 Broadway, Albany, New York 12246.
Governance and Administration
The State University Construction Fund is governed by a three-person Board of Trustees to ensure balanced oversight. The composition of the board includes one trustee selected from the members of the SUNY Board of Trustees, while the remaining two trustees are nominated by the Governor and confirmed by the State Senate.
This structure allows the Fund to align its capital planning with both the academic priorities of the university and the legislative requirements of New York State.
Infrastructure Portfolio and Budgetary Scope
The Fund manages a vast array of facilities across the SUNY system, ranging from high-tech educational spaces to residential halls and medical facilities. The scale of this portfolio is significant, encompassing nearly 100 million square feet of space.
Between 2008 and 2013, the Fund operated with a total budget of $5,885 million. A substantial portion of this—specifically $1.65 billion—was allocated as future appropriations for critical maintenance projects scheduled between the 2010/2011 and 2012/2013 academic years.
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Facility Breakdown
The Fund's responsibilities are divided across several facility types, each with different funding sources and management structures:
- Educational Facilities: The largest sector, comprising 1,823 buildings.
- Residence Halls: 467 buildings managed through a combination of the Fund, campus resources, and the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY).
- Community Colleges: 490 buildings funded equally by State and Local sources.
- Hospitals: 13 facilities funded via hospital revenues and campus resources.
| Facility Type | Number of Buildings | Square Feet (Millions) | Average Age (Years) | Budget (Millions) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Facilities | 1,823 | 57.6 | 44.5 | $4,426 |
| Hospitals | 13 | 2.5 | 24.3 | $450 |
| Residence Halls | 467 | 19.3 | 34.0 | $573 |
| Community Colleges | 490 | 17.9 | 41.6 | $436 |
| Totals | 2,798 | 97.3 | 42.1 | $5,885 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the State University Construction Fund?
It is a New York State public-benefit corporation that manages the construction and capital planning for the State University of New York (SUNY) and its affiliated institutions.
Who leads the State University Construction Fund?
The Fund is currently chaired by Eric Corngold.
How is the Board of Trustees selected?
The board consists of three members: one is chosen from the SUNY Board of Trustees, and two are nominated by the Governor and confirmed by the State Senate.
What types of buildings does the Fund manage?
The Fund manages educational facilities, residence halls, community college buildings, and hospitals.
How are community college facilities funded?
Funding for community college facilities is split equally, with 50% provided by the State and 50% provided by local sources.