Board Approves Demolition Of President's Residence
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- The Maryland Board of Public Works has approved demolishing the president's residence at the University of Maryland, College Park, in order to make way for a new mansion.
The board voted 2-1 on Wednesday to tear down the existing residence, which was built in 1956. It's no longer considered suitable as both a residence and a venue for important fundraising events.
Comptroller Peter Franchot voted against the idea of building a new $7.2 million mansion, given budget constraints at the university. Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown and Treasurer Nancy Kopp approved it.
The College Park Foundation is planning to build The University House next to the site of the existing residence, using its own money. Supporters say they hope to raise more money by having a better venue for fundraising.
(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
