The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has nabbed $14.5 million for new construction at its Bingham animal research facility in Orange County.

The grant is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, also known as the federal stimulus package. It is awarded by the National Institutes of Health.

The stimulus grant will go toward the construction of two buildings to house animals and to enhance material support for faculty researchers working to develop gene therapies for hemophilia, muscular dystrophy and other genetic diseases. Encompassing 30,000 square feet, construction is expected to begin in 2011 and conclude in 2013. 

In addition to the federally funded buildings, the university plans to fund and construct a building for veterinary services, laboratories and offices. 

To date, UNC has received nearly $110 million in stimulus grants and awards, and anticipates another $19 million.

Information for this taken from the 4/6/10 Triangle Business Journal