On Wednesday, Feb. 5, the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Student Association (SA) met with Sustainability Program Manager Andrew Ericson and State Representative Jill Billings to discuss the La Crosse Corridor Study, the Universities of Wisconsin budget and phase two of the Prairie Springs Science Center.
Sustainability Program Manager Andrew Ericson presented a sustainability update to SA. Ericson said the program has been working on making UWL a bike-friendly campus, addressing water concerns, reducing food waste, implementing sustainable infrastructure and continuing the campus’ downward trend of carbon emissions.
Ericson announced that the agreement for his role as Sustainability Program Manager will expire and be up for discussion June 28, 2025. This role, which is funded in tandem by student fees paid into the UWL Green Fund and by the university, was created in 2022 after 14 years of students advocating for it. In fact, in 2019, a petition to create the role created by SA garnered signatures from 25% of the student body.
Ericson then presented the La Crosse Corridor Study, a study to explore road designs that would increase the safety and effectiveness of La Crosse roads. The study particularly focuses on the following roads: U.S. Route 53, U.S. Route 14/61, Wisconsin Highway 35 and La Crosse Street between 8th Street and 12th Street.
“They’re basically looking at all the north-south highways in the city of La Crosse and redesigning them to improve safety, reduce congestion and keep them in good condition,” said Ericson.
Results from the Transportation and Commuting Survey conducted in the Spring of 2024 revealed an alarming amount of students who feel that the walk to campus is dangerous. The WIS 35 project aims to address those concerns.
More information about the La Crosse Corridor Studies can be here. The two alternative plans being looked into for WIS 35 can be found here.
After Ericson’s final remarks, Wisconsin State Representative Jill Billings discussed the state’s budget for the UW system schools and the second part of the Prairie Springs Science Center renovations. Rep. Billings has served in the 95th State Assembly seat for over 13 years.
As for the UW Systems budget, Rep. Billings spoke about the request to the Wisconsin State Legislature for a $855 million budget increase out of the $4.3 billion state surplus. Wisconsin is currently ranked No. 43 nationally in public university funding.
“I don’t think that’s asking too much … Our university system needs some love,” she said.
Rep. Billings continued, “According to our legislative fiscal bureau … about 17% of UW System’s current funding, or $1.3 billion, comes from state general purpose revenue. In 1985, it was 41.8% … The state’s commitment has fallen and guess what has to rise to make up the difference? Your tuition.”
The requested $855 million, if granted, would allow the UW System to keep resident undergraduate tuition from rising for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 academic years. It would also be used to continue the Wisconsin Tuition Promise, increase staff wages, cover general operations costs, offer more mental health services and fund innovation.
The second phase of the Prairie Springs Science Center renovation was the next topic of discussion. Since the opening of the first Prairie Springs Science Center, building two has been turned down three times, explained Rep. Billings. Now on the fourth attempt to get it passed, this year the project is a top priority for the Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman and the Board of Regents.
“This isn’t just about La Crosse. This is about the state of Wisconsin and what an excellent workforce we provide. We need this second building,” Rep. Billings told SA.
She ended her time with SA by encouraging them, as well as students, parents and community members to contact their legislators and the Joint Committee on Finance in support of the build.
In her officer report, SA President Latus reminded the SA body of the upcoming Spring primary election on April 1. For information on the Spring primary, click here.
Inclusivity Director Emma Wittman announced that Black Student Unity (BSU) will host Reflections of Ebony with keynote speaker Shaundel Washington-Spivey from 6:30-8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15. The same night, 7-9:30 p.m., the Pride Center’s “Love with Pride” open mic night will be held in the Student Union E-cafe, said Senator Lutsey.
In his advisement report, Director of University Centers and Student Engagement Kyle Burke announced that volunteer opportunities for UWL’s Day of Service on March 1 have been posted. Click here to learn more or to sign up for a volunteer site.
Senator Bellisle said the Asian Student Organization’s (ASO) Feast of the East will be at 5:30 Friday, April 4. The next day, 6-8 p.m. April 5 will be ALANA’s Phenomenal Womxn Dinner with guest speakers and local vendors, said Senator Lujan.
A resolution to appoint a graduate student senator was unanimously passed and Bishal Karki was sworn in to the position.
SA will meet again on Wednesday, Feb. 19 to discuss possible resolutions.
