We Build UMass
The University of Massachusetts Building Authority (UMBA) is a distinct, public organization established by the Massachusetts Legislature in 1960, generally to construct facilities on the University of Massachusetts campuses.
In order to construct facilities, the Authority may borrow funds by issuing bonds. The University has pledged to pay the principal and interest on the bonds issued by the Authority over the life of the bonds. The Authority is also responsible for engaging architects, engineers and construction firms to design and build the facilities. After the facilities are completed, they are used and maintained by the University while the Authority usually maintains ownership of such facilities.
By statute, the Authority has eleven members, appointed by the Governor, who oversee the activity of the Authority. Five of these members are also Trustees of the University of Massachusetts. Two of the six non-trustee Members must be graduates of the University.
