MADISON, Wis. -- University of Wisconsin System officials are commending state lawmakers for investing in new campus building projects despite the recession.

The Legislature's Joint Finance Committee has approved 36 major UW System building projects in the budget, including new residence halls, state-of-the-art research laboratories and academic buildings.

UW building and maintenance projects would receive $380 million in taxpayer-supported funding and another $486 million in student fees, private donations and other non-tax sources under the budget plan.

System President Kevin Reilly said the projects "will have a lasting impact on our ability to educate students and conduct world-class research at the University of Wisconsin."