WVU Approves Bonds to Fund Campus Modernization and Infrastructure Upgrades

University expects to secure favorable interest rates due to strong financial standing

Apr. 17, 2026 at 7:08pm

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A highly polished, geometric metal sculpture representing the WVU campus, lit dramatically against a clean white background to symbolize the university's strategic infrastructure investments.WVU's strategic bond financing will fund critical campus upgrades and modernization projects, strengthening the university's facilities for years to come.Morgantown Today

The West Virginia University Board of Governors has approved the sale of several bonds totaling $80 million to fund campus modernization projects and upgrades to the university's steam plant system. WVU President Michael T. Benson says the university's strong financial ratings from Fitch and Moody's should allow it to secure good interest rates on the bonds.

Why it matters

These infrastructure investments will help WVU continue to upgrade and maintain its facilities to support the university's educational mission and serve its growing student population. The bond funding demonstrates WVU's financial stability and commitment to modernizing its campus.

The details

The BOG approved a $40 million, 20-year taxable bond to fund phase 3 and 4 of WVU's campus modernization program, which will have an estimated annual debt service of $3.3 million at a 5.37% interest rate. They also approved a $40 million bond to improve the university's steam plant system. Additionally, a 30-year bond was approved that will be supported by project-related revenues rather than institutional funding.

  • The BOG approved the bond sales at their meeting on April 17, 2026.

The players

Michael T. Benson

The president of West Virginia University, who says the university's strong financial standing will allow it to secure favorable interest rates on the bonds.

David Kosslow

The WVU Associate Vice President for Finance and Treasury, who provided details on the bond sales to the BOG.

Chris Kabourek

WVU's new Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, who was introduced at the BOG meeting and brings nearly three decades of fiscal experience to the university.

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What they’re saying

“They use common sense, they work super hard, they have high expectations, hold themselves accountable, and get some things done.”

— Chris Kabourek, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, West Virginia University

What’s next

The university will now move forward with issuing the approved bonds to fund the various construction and infrastructure projects on campus.

The takeaway

WVU's ability to secure favorable bond financing demonstrates the university's strong financial standing and commitment to modernizing its facilities to support its educational mission and growing student population.