I keep hearing how the new construction on campus is all paid for by outside donors, and does not affect the current financial crisis facing UAF. However, I have yet to see an actual analysis of the costs associated with these projects, not only the construction costs, but the cost of supporting that construction.

Are these donations paying for the new parking required by these buildings? Are they paying the salaries of the people who will work there and the janitors and maintenance staff who will service them? Are they paying the increase in utility costs and upkeep?

I find it a bit depressing that UAF can afford to build many new buildings while old buildings go unmaintained, lost faculty go unreplaced, and campus services decline in value and reliability.

As a student I'll probably never see any benefit from a new research building or a museum that looks like two ships colliding in the night, but I do feel the effects of overcrowded classes, crippled Internet service, and elevators which regularly trap people in the MBS complex.

I'd appreciate an answer to some of these questions, and a way for students to better observe and understand UAF's budget. I feel that since we are being asked to pay more every year, we have a right to know where that money is going, and if we as students will be seeing any tangible benefit from it.

 Gabe Emerson

Senior, CS Program

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