TRENTON – Today, the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE) awarded $244.4 million in capital facilities grant funding from two state-backed, revolving bond programs for higher education. A total of 92 projects across 23 colleges and universities have received funding to address deferred maintenance, enhance campus safety, and upgrade student facilities. 

“New Jersey colleges and universities are engines of innovation and excellence, and this investment ensures they have the infrastructure to support their mission,” said Governor Murphy. “By enhancing their capacity to modernize and improve, we're empowering institutions to deliver world-class education and drive breakthroughs that shape our future.”

“State support for higher education capital needs plays a vital role in ensuring the long-term financial health and sustainability of our institutions,” said Angela Bethea, Acting Secretary of Higher Education. “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 (CIF) and $135.5 million for 53 projects from the Higher Education Facilities Trust Fund (HEFT). Funding for the approved applications is subject to the issuance of bonds. In accordance with P.L. 2025, c.74, 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 Outdated HVAC systems, boilers and chillers will also be replaced to improve energy efficiency.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.

“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.” 

The grants build upon the Murphy Administration’s efforts, in collaboration with the Legislature, to invest in higher education infrastructure. In 2023, nearly $400 million was awarded across 54 capital projects through all four of the state-backed bond programs for higher education. Additionally, in 2021, OSHE awarded $46 million for 15 facilities improvement projects supporting career and technical education at county colleges under the Securing Our Children’s Future Bond Act.

“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.”

“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. Our state is so fortunate to have such a strong network of higher education institutions, and these investments will go so far in keeping them competitive, especially when it comes to attracting and retaining the brightest minds," said Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin. "Most importantly, our students deserve the peace of mind that comes with a safe and modern learning environment, and when we invest in our campus infrastructure, we expand the opportunities available to students and communities across New Jersey.”

“We have the best colleges and universities in the country right here in New Jersey, but we need to make the wise investments to keep it that way,” said Senator Joe Cryan, Chairman of the Senate Higher Education Committee. “We must continue to offer our students the best opportunities for a world-class education that they can afford. These funds will support that effort by investing in campus facilities that advance their educational ambitions. This will pay dividends for years to come for our students, their families and the entire State.”

“Today’s awards will help higher education institutions across New Jersey move important facility projects forward, creating safer environments for our students while helping our campuses prepare for the future," said Assemblywoman Linda Carter, Chair of the Assembly Higher Education Committee. "Our colleges and universities must be equipped to support the students they serve and the opportunities they pursue, and by investing in our campus' facilities, we’re strengthening student success and making sure these institutions can continue to operate at the highest level for years to come.”

See the full list of awards here: Awarded Projects