New Jersey colleges, universities receive nearly $250M for campus upgrades and safety improvements
NEW JERSEY — New Jersey colleges and universities will receive nearly $250 million in state funding to upgrade campus infrastructure, address deferred maintenance and improve safety and learning environments, state officials announced Thursday.
The New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education awarded $244.4 million in capital facilities grants to support 92 projects across 23 public and independent colleges and universities. The funding comes from two state-backed revolving bond programs for higher education.
“New Jersey colleges and universities are engines of innovation and excellence, and this investment ensures they have the infrastructure to support their mission,” Gov. Phil Murphy said. “By enhancing their capacity to modernize and improve, we’re empowering institutions to deliver world-class education and drive breakthroughs that shape our future.”
The grants were awarded following a competitive solicitation issued in August 2025. Of the total funding, $108.9 million was allocated for 41 projects through the Higher Education Capital Improvement Fund, while $135.5 million was awarded for 53 projects through the Higher Education Facilities Trust Fund. Funding for approved projects is subject to the issuance of bonds, officials said.
Angela Bethea, acting secretary of higher education, said the investment supports long-term sustainability for institutions statewide.
“State support for higher education capital needs plays a vital role in ensuring the long-term financial health and sustainability of our institutions,” Bethea said. “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.”
Projects funded through the grants include structural repairs to meet health, safety, fire and building code standards, upgrades to fire alarm systems and emergency generators, and improvements to building accessibility to comply with ADA requirements. Colleges will also replace outdated HVAC systems, boilers and chillers to improve energy efficiency and renovate aging classrooms, laboratories and libraries.
“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.”
State officials said the awards build on previous investments in higher education infrastructure. In 2023, nearly $400 million was awarded across 54 capital projects through four state-backed bond programs. In 2021, an additional $46 million was awarded for facilities improvements at county colleges supporting career and technical education.
“This is an investment in the opportunities we offer our students so that they will pursue a higher education here in New Jersey,” said Senate President Nick Scutari. “Supporting capital improvements to our colleges and universities will ensure that they continue to play a key role in educating generations of students who will benefit from quality facilities and modern technologies. This is an important investment in New Jersey’s future.”
Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin said the funding will help institutions remain competitive and provide students with safe learning environments.
“By investing in our colleges and universities, we’re strengthening the foundation for success that New Jersey students rely on today and will rely on for generations to come,” Coughlin said. “Most importantly, our students deserve the peace of mind that comes with a safe and modern learning environment.”
A full list of awarded projects is available through the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education.
