The New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education has awarded New Jersey City University (NJCU) a total of $44,401,300.68 for various campus upgrades, part of $244.4 million in capital facilities grant funding awarded to universities throughout the state.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“New Jersey colleges and universities are engines of innovation and excellence, and this investment ensures they have the infrastructure to support their mission,” outgoing Gov. Phil Murphy (D) said in a statement.
“By enhancing their capacity to modernize and improve, we’re empowering institutions to deliver world-class education and drive breakthroughs that shape our future.”
A total of 92 projects across 23 colleges and universities have received funding to address deferred maintenance, enhance campus safety, and upgrade student facilities.
In NJCU’s case, the money will be used for slate roof repairs, building repointing, boiler room controls, and a sump pump replacement at Hepburn Hall; remodeling the financial aid and bursar offices; and replacing campus network infrastructure – among other things.
“State support for higher education capital needs plays a vital role in ensuring the long-term financial health and sustainability of our institutions,” added Acting Secretary of Higher Education Angela Bethea.
“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 state rules, a portion of the grants were designated for deferred maintenance and other capital projects at NJCU and some awards are still underway.
“We are profoundly grateful to Governor Phil Murphy, the New Jersey Legislature, and the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education for this $44 million capital investment in our campus — one of the single largest infrastructure commitments to NJCU in decades,” NJCU President Andrés Acebo told HCV.
“This funding does more than upgrade buildings and systems; it stands as a powerful affirmation of our shared vision and the focused, disciplined work undertaken over the past three years to stabilize, strengthen, and modernize this anchor institution. It signals confidence in what NJCU is becoming and in the mission we are stewarding on behalf of the communities we serve.”
Editor’s note: This story was updated on Friday morning with a comment from NJCU President Andrés Acebo.
I think you mean upgrades to Kean University. NJCU is being dissolved. It wouldn’t be, if administrators there hadn’t mismanaged taxpayer money. Also, your current president got rid of positions in student services, so he can’t really say he believes in helping students.