The South Carolina Jobs-Economic Development Authority (JEDA) has issued $9,741,425 in economic development bonds to finance energy efficiency improvements at Columbia International University and Ben Lippen School.

The bonds—$9,487,085 tax-exempt and $254,340 taxable—will finance HVAC, water/sewer, and lighting upgrades at the CIU campus off Monticello Road and at both campuses of Ben Lippen Schools (Lower School on St. Andrews Road and Lower and Upper School on Monticello Road).

“Saving money and energy helps us fulfill our educational mission. We’re pleased we could take advantage of JEDA financing for this project,” said Rob Hartman, chief financial officer at CIU

“CIU and Ben Lippen are integral members of our educational community in Columbia. Helping them upgrade their infrastructure was a privilege,” said Theodore B. DuBose, bond counsel at Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, P.A., in Columbia.

“This bond issue will help these schools operate more efficiently and comfortably while allowing them to structure their investment at favorable terms,” said Harry A. Huntley, CPA, executive director of JEDA in Columbia.