The New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE) awarded $244.4 million Jan. 8 in capital facilities grant funding from two state-backed, revolving bond programs for higher education.
A total of 92 projects at 23 colleges and universities have received funding to address deferred maintenance, enhance campus safety and upgrade student facilities.
New Jersey has invested heavily in higher‑education construction over the past decade through the Higher Education Capital Improvement Fund and the Building Our Future Bond Act. These funds have supported new science buildings, residence hall upgrades, technology modernization and accessibility improvements.
“State support for higher education capital needs plays a vital role in ensuring the long-term financial health and sustainability of our institutions,” said Acting Secretary of Higher Education Angela Bethea. “Today’s investment builds on our commitment to maintain safe, modern and accessible campuses, while supporting institutions to deliver cutting-edge educational experiences that prepare students for success in the workforce.”
Grants were awarded following a competitive solicitation released in August 2025, with $108.9 million in funding awarded for 41 projects from the Higher Education Capital Improvement Fund and $135.5 million for 53 projects from the Higher Education Facilities Trust Fund. Funding for the approved applications is subject to the issuance of bonds.
A portion of the grants were designated for deferred maintenance and other capital projects at New Jersey City University, and some awards are still underway.
Projects being funded span a range of facility improvements, including structural repairs to meet health, safety, fire and building code standards. Institutions are upgrading fire alarms, installing emergency generators and enhancing building access to meet safety and ADA standards.
Outdated HVAC systems, boilers and chillers will also be replaced to improve energy efficiency. Renovations to aging classrooms, labs and libraries will transform them into modern, technology-supported learning environments.
The New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education says most campuses maintain functional and safe facilities, with ongoing renovation and modernization projects. Older institutions such as Rutgers University and New Jersey City University have aging buildings that require ongoing capital investment.
“Preserving, maintaining, and reimagining college campuses across the state has helped New Jersey maintain its role as a leader in higher education,” said Sheryl Stitt, executive director of the New Jersey Educational Facilities Authority. “With deferred maintenance needs in higher education growing exponentially across the country, this investment will have a meaningful impact on the State’s higher education environments where our students and faculty live, learn, and work every day.”
