UNC Board Approves Major Plans For App State

The UNC system Board of Governors has approved more than $200 million for projects at Appalachian State University, including a public-private partnership will be used to transform on-campus housing as part of the plans.

The bulk of the money - about $191 million - will be used to renovate or replace seven residence halls - involving more than 2,000 beds overall - and adds a parking deck.

Private money and existing university bonds are expected to pay for it. The work is expected to be completed in three phases through 2022.

Also included in the plans is a new end-zone facility at Kidd Brewer Stadium to replace the 45-year-old Owens Field house. The project budget is $45 million and will be paid for through the athletic department, seating and food revenues, and the department is to be repaid using tenant lease revenue.

The board also approved Appalachian State's request to start design work to transform the former Watauga High School property into athletic training facilities.