Evers proposes $137 Million in Renovations at UWO

OSHKOSH, WI- (WISS) – Governor Tony Evers’ proposed 2025-2027 capital budget includes $137.5 million dollars for renovations of UW-Oshkosh’s (UWO) Polk Learning Commons. The budget also includes improvements at Winnebago Mental Health Institute (WMHI).

State Senator Kristin Dassler-Alfheim met with the governor to discuss the importance of the projects for the Fox Valley.

“Libraries are collaborative spaces for students. It’s where they come together and learn how to effectively communicate and work together – soft-skills that are in high demand but can’t always be learned in a lecture hall,” Dassler-Alfheim said in a press release. “After touring the space in February and seeing first-hand what condition the library is in, I can tell you that this project is absolutely essential for the continued success of the university and its students.”

The proposed project would reduce the Polk Learning Commons’ overall square footage. The building was constructed in 1962, with another wing added in 1969. In May 2024, over 50% of its rated components were in “Poor” condition. 

UWO Project Details

The project to renovate the main wing from 1962 and the wing added in 1969 will do the following:

• Demolish and reconstruct the 1962 Wing
• Renovate the 1969 wing
• Make the facility more accessible
• Make the facility more energy efficient
• Save the university $52,000 annually 

Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman 

“Governor Evers’ UW capital budget provides key funding necessary for building repairs and renovations as well as critical new projects that modernize classroom and research facilities,” said Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman. “His proposal ensures Wisconsin is continuing to build opportunities for future generations of students.”

According to UW-Oshkosh’s First Destination Outcomes Report, 84.4% of Wisconsin residents and nearly 31% of non-residents who graduate from UW-Oshkosh remain in Wisconsin afterward. 

“UW-Oshkosh graduates are more likely to stay and work in our region, which means investing in UW-Oshkosh is an investment in the Fox Valley workforce,” Dassler-Alfheim said in a press release. “This project ensures that UW-Oshkosh remains an attractive option for prospective students.”

Winnebago Mental Health Institute

The capital budget also includes $61.2 million for security investments at Winnebago Mental Health Institute. Evers’ capital budget proposes refurbishing utility and service tunnels at the facility.