Permanent Building Fund hearing focuses on $122.9M FY2026 capital recommendation and deferred-maintenance pipeline

Legislative Services briefed the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee on Feb. 17, 2025 about the Permanent Building Fund’s structure, revenue sources and the division of active capital projects, then answered members’ questions about timelines and project prioritization.

Analyst Frances Lippett told the committee the fund is structured for multi‑year capital work and that many appropriations become continuously appropriated under Idaho Code section 57-1105, meaning unexpended balances on projects carry forward. She said the total value of active public works projects is about $1.9 billion, with $1.4 billion for capital projects and roughly 42% of capital funding already committed.

Why it matters: the Permanent Building Fund finances state construction and large maintenance projects for state agencies and higher education; multi‑year commitments and how the legislature chooses to appropriate or repurpose funds affect the timing and completion of projects statewide.

FY2026 capital and maintenance recommendations discussed

- Total recommendation: $122,861,900 for public works by the Division of Public Works, consisting of six capital projects, restoration of repurposed appropriations and $68,208,800 for alterations and repairs and maintenance projects. - Selected capital…