Ehrlich Unveils $1.4 Billion Plan for Construction Projects

Maryland Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. (R) announced a $1.4 billion spending plan for capital projects yesterday that includes $193 million to make room for new students at the state's four-year colleges and universities.

Standing in front of the clock tower at Towson University, Ehrlich said the money in his fiscal 2007 capital budget would provide the "bricks and mortar to accommodate a growing need. The numbers are enormous."

The University System of Maryland's student population of more than 100,000 is expected to increase 20 percent by 2012, according to Chancellor William E. Kirwan. "For the first time in memory, the state has recognized and supported enrollment growth," he said. "It signals a great time for our state."

Bonds would be required to finance about half of the overall spending. The blueprint presented yesterday counts on $718 million in borrowing to upgrade hospitals and medical centers at the University of Maryland and Johns Hopkins, overhaul wastewater treatment plants in the state and complete a maximum-security prison in Allegany County.

The budget provides $281 million to relieve crowding in public schools, which Ehrlich announced earlier.

It also includes:

· $24.6 million for a new complex at the Maryland School for the Deaf in Frederick.

· $11.8 million for a Cultural Arts Center at Montgomery College's Takoma Park campus.

· $8 million for a new Student Services Building at St. Mary's College of Maryland.