Budget formulas used to determine levels of required staffing for operations and maintenance departments have consistently shown ECSU to be under staffed and under funded in the area of operations and maintenance. Eastern Connecticut State University has modernized the campus communications infrastructure through the installation of a fiber-optic backbone for the data networks and added extensive new copper facilities for voice operations. In addition, three additional voice nodes have been added during the 1990's to expand and modernize voice facilities. Currently the campus network is running Gigabit Ethernet for data. A fiber optic based campus-wide video network is now in the planning stage along with improvements to the building management and fire control systems.
Funding is currently available for both projects from capital and institutional funds.
ECSU has developed a comprehensive strategy for roof replacement and is systematically implementing this program through the use of minor capital funds. Property acquisition will continue to be required in order to implement the vision in the Master Plan. Contract negotiations are currently underway. This facility will house the three science departments as well as the Computer Science department. Occupancy is expected in the fall of 2004.