Wisconsin Approves $110M in State Projects

MADISON, Wis. — In a bipartisan show of support, the Wisconsin State Building Commission has unanimously approved more than $110 million in state construction, maintenance, and demolition projects across campuses, correctional institutions, and cultural landmarks.

The vote, taken Wednesday, marks a relatively quiet but meaningful development in state government during an otherwise slow legislative season. The approvals come just weeks after the more contentious debates surrounding the passage of Wisconsin’s biennial budget.

The projects span a wide range of efforts, from necessary infrastructure upgrades to preservation work for historical venues and future military readiness planning.

In a statement, Gov. Tony Evers called the projects "critically important" for the state’s long-term wellbeing.

“I’m grateful to the Commission for approving these projects and seeing the value in continuing to invest in the past, present, and future of Wisconsin,” Evers said. “I look forward to seeing firsthand the impact these critical investments will have on communities and folks across our state.”

Highlights of Approved Projects:

Among the key projects approved by the Commission:

• $13.3 million for the demolition of outdated buildings at three Universities of Wisconsin campuses: UW-Oshkosh, UW-Platteville, and UW-Parkside.
• $7.5 million to upgrade the electrical system at a key library building at UW-Stout, improving reliability and safety.
• $4 million to bring the Fox Lake Correctional Institution into better compliance with ADA accessibility standards, enhancing conditions for both staff and inmates.
• Approval to transfer 79.9 acres of land from the Department of Health Services to the Department of Military Affairs, paving the way for a future National Guard Readiness Center.
• Formal acceptance of a $1 million in-kind donation of a new rigging and lighting system for the Al. Ringling Theatre in Baraboo, a historic performance venue near the Circus World Museum.

Culture and Preservation

While most of the funding targets infrastructure and functional upgrades, the inclusion of projects like the new lighting system at the Circus World Museum and historic Al. Ringling Theatre reflects the Commission’s commitment to cultural preservation.

The Ringling Theatre, often called “America’s Prettiest Playhouse,” is a centerpiece of Baraboo’s downtown. The lighting upgrade, enabled by the generous donation, is expected to significantly enhance both aesthetics and safety for performances.

A Bipartisan Moment

The State Building Commission, chaired by Gov. Evers, is composed of four Democrats and four Republicans, a split that has occasionally resulted in gridlock on controversial issues. However, Wednesday’s votes were unanimous, signaling broad support for infrastructure investment regardless of party affiliation.

Observers noted that the cooperation highlights the importance of reinvesting in public facilities, even amid broader political disagreement.

Originally reported by Anya Van Wagtendonk in Wisconsin Public Radio.