More than 30 business, labor, tribal and education leaders have signed on to a letter in support of the Phil Penny Knight Campus for Accelerating Scientific Impact and are urging legislators to provide state support for the project.

In a message shared this week in Salem, the group advocates for an allocation of general obligation bonds.

“We urge Oregon’s elected leaders to partner with UO by investing $100 million in general obligation bonds toward the construction of the facilities to ensure a footprint large enough to provide space and equipment for private entrepreneurs and other universities,” reads the letter. “With the State’s partnership, the campus will be open to not only critical university research, but also a full spectrum of innovators and entrepreneurs.”

Knight Campus leaders are in Salem this week, participating in information sessions regarding the $1 billion dollar project and informing legislators about how it is a “game-changing initiative” for the entire state.

“The campus will create a clear line of sight between discovery and impact, supporting innovations developed in Oregon, by Oregonians and ensure they stay here to fuel the economy,” according to those who signed the letter of support.

The public will have an opportunity to learn more about the Knight Campus and the kinds of scientific research that will take place there during a May 9 talk by Patrick Phillips, acting executive director of Knight Campus. Phillips will discuss his research on aging and the challenges and opportunities created by the potential for prolonging human life.

Tickets are available online or by calling 541-434-7000.