" Major building program begins at state universities " (Jan. 15 and TribLIVE.com), which reported on the construction of new student residence facilities on several Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) university campuses, contained a number of inaccuracies.
Several of the projects cited actually have been completed over the last two years, and the buildings already are occupied. There are not, as the article claims, "plans to replace all residence halls at the system's 14 schools." Currently, only three campuses -- California, Indiana and Slippery Rock -- have on-campus projects planned or under construction, while two others are considering projects. Four campuses have completed projects since 2004.
While housing costs for students living in the new facilities that have been constructed are higher than what students paid to live in the old-style dormitories these facilities replaced, the increase is not the "$400 to $500 per semester" cited in the article.
It also is inaccurate to claim that these projects are "causing dismay among local officials." The universities have worked closely with their communities. Where agreement has not been reached, efforts to achieve a resolution are continuing.
James DillonHarrisburg
The writer is vice chancellor for administration and finance for the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.
