University of Missouri-Rolla Chancellor John F. Carney III praises Missouri Gov. Matt Blunt’s commitment to the Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative, as expressed in the governor’s Jan. 24, 2007, State of the State address.

The Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative (PDF) calls for capital improvement projects at public colleges and universities throughout the state. Among the projects that would be funded through the initiative is UMR’s Toomey Hall, which will house the mechanical and aerospace engineering department. The new construction phase of the $28 million project is under way, but additional funding is needed to complete the second phase – a renovation of the old structure.

“Completion of Toomey Hall will result in a world-class facility for our largest engineering program,” Carney says. “This is also a strategic investment for Missouri’s economy, as a talented, well-educated engineering work force will be needed to keep our state competitive.”

Carney urges state lawmakers to support the Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative.