Guelph - The University of Guelph is receiving more than $8.1 million from the province to improve and upgrade campus buildings and facilities.

The funding is U of G's share of a $1.4- billion investment in strategic infrastructure that the government unveiled last fall.

The announcement was made today by Liz Sandals, MPP for Guelph-Wellington, on behalf of John Milloy, minister of training, colleges and universities.

"Today's students will build Ontario's future economy," Sandals said. "Our government is improving the quality of post-secondary education for students by investing in key campus improvements. Guelph will benefit through a boost to the local economy with new spending and jobs."

U of G will use the funding to complete priority projects related to its utilities conservation and campus safety and to make upgrades and improvements to existing facilities.

The projects are all identified in the University's multi-year campus infrastructure renewal plan. They include the restoration of the exterior of Macdonald Institute, upgrading of classrooms, re-roofing various campus buildings, lighting retrofits, water reduction initiatives and the replacement of outdated fire alarm systems.

"We are delighted to receive confirmation of this targeted funding for facilities renewal, as it will help us address some of the critical items on our campus," said president Alastair Summerlee.

"The Liberal government pledged to give higher education more prominence in the budget, and this investment is proof of that commitment. It also recognizes the connection between universities and Ontario's economy. I am thankful for the involvement of Liz Sandals and Minister Milloy, who recently visited our campus and expressed his support for our efforts."

Milloy, who was named the MTCU minister in January, said the funding would create better and safer learning environments for students and is an "important investment in tomorrow's workforce. This funding is part of our government's overall strategy to invest it the people of Ontario through strategic infrastructure improvements and new job creations," he said.