If approved by North Carolina voters, the bond will invest $1.3 billion across the state for higher education capital construction, repair and renovation with $204.5 million directly benefitting higher education in Guilford County. The UNC System, of which N.C. A&T is a constituent university, could receive $980 million.

A&T’s portion would include $90 million to construct the state-of-the-art Engineering Research and Innovation Complex (ERIC). The multi-functional, interdisciplinary facility will provide the necessary resources and accommodations to support the dynamic and innovative research being conducted at the university. In addition, the ERIC will serve as a catalyst for economic growth and development, establish a pipeline of diverse science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) leaders, and provide a return on investment that will enlarge the university’s economic impact. 

The joint resolution states that higher education is a primary driver of job creation and economic value, with the three institutions contributing an estimated $2 billion collectively to the Piedmont Triad Region. The last general obligation bond was authorized to upgrade the state’s infrastructure 15 years ago and since then the state’s population has increased by 2 million. The proposed bond will not result in any tax increases.

Brent Christensen, chief executive officer of the Greensboro Partnership, also made remarks at the signing. The Partnership and the trustees of all three institutions have expressed support of the bond’s investment through individually signed resolutions.

The $2 billion Connect NC bond will provide investments in education, parks, recreation, safety, and water and sewer infrastructure projects throughout the state.

The bond referendum will appear on the ballot on March 15, 2016.