State Budget Committee approves start of Hulman Center renovation

INDIANAPOLIS – State Rep. Clyde Kersey (D-Terre Haute) said the Indiana State Budget Committee has agreed to allow the $50 million renovation of the Hulman Center to proceed.

Approval came during the committee’s meeting today on the Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne campus.

“This renovation has been needed for a long time,” explained Kersey. “The electrical and mechanical systems are obsolete and outdated. The building was built in 1973. It has only one elevator and the loading dock doesn’t meet modern needs.

“The Hulman Center is truly the center of activity not only for the university but also for the community.

“In addition to being the home of the Sycamores, where Larry Bird made history and the NCAA Midwest Regional was held in 1974, legends like Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, John Denver, Charlie Pride, and many others left great memories from their performances,” added Kersey.

“Indiana State University is a world-class academic institution. The flagship building, the Hulman Center, should reflect the excellence of the university.”

The Indiana General Assembly appropriated $37.5 million for the project in the 2015 biennial budget. The remainder of the funds will come from capital reserves, gifts and non-fee replaced debt, which will be paid with university general fund investment income.