Educational institutions, municipalities, and healthcare facilities constantly struggle to maintain and upgrade their infrastructure. To stay ahead, they must prioritize cost-effective and innovative solutions. Navitas is dedicated to helping clients complete critical infrastructure projects through creative loans and financing options. We specialize in helping K-12 schools, municipal entities, colleges, universities, and hospitals tackle infrastructure challenges. Our approach focuses on innovative financing, legislative navigation, and energy-efficient solutions.
Navigating Legislative Challenges
In today’s legislative climate, institutions often face stringent budgetary constraints and complex regulatory requirements. Capital improvement funds for school districts are limited, requiring careful planning and prioritization. Navitas understands that maintaining current infrastructure or replacing existing elements is no small feat. Through loan opportunities through the State of Nebraska and federally, Navitas will navigate through the process to help you find the appropriate financing, plan, and contractor. Our team provides expert guidance ensuring that critical infrastructure projects can proceed without unnecessary delays or obstacles.
Financing Options in Nebraska
The State of Nebraska offers various financing options for our clients. Schools and other institutions can access federal and energy grants, including a loan program from the US Department of Energy. Through a Department of Energy grant, schools have the opportunity to secure loan amounts.
Collaboration with local banks is an integral part of this process. Bankers work closely with energy managers associated with the US Department of Energy to ensure that projects meet the necessary qualifications. Once a lender pre-approves a loan, the energy manager reviews and approves the project, with Navitas playing a crucial role in integrating energy-efficient solutions. This thorough approach ensures that projects not only meet financial and regulatory requirements but also contribute to long-term energy savings.
Prioritizing Energy-Efficient Solutions
Navitas’ involvement becomes particularly significant after the initial loan approval, as we provide detailed reports to the Energy Manager on equipment types, LED lighting, HVAC systems, and roofing. The school board is then able to finalize contracts with Navitas and prioritize projects that align with their energy conservation goals.
To qualify for loans, equipment must meet specific energy efficiency standards. Navitas assists clients in replacing outdated or failing equipment, focusing on energy optimization and deferred maintenance.
Case Study: Loup City Schools
Loup City Schools recently invested $3.5 million in infrastructure improvements to enhance both elementary and high school facilities. The upgrades focused on window replacements, HVAC system enhancements, classroom reconfigurations, and building control optimization, ensuring a more efficient and comfortable learning environment. By partnering with Navitas for onsite construction management, the district allowed the superintendent to remain focused on instructional leadership, ensuring that educational priorities continued uninterrupted while facility improvements were efficiently executed.
Leveraging Federal Programs
In addition to state-level resources, federal programs such as the Inflation Reduction Act provide further opportunities for infrastructure improvements. This act offers distinct opportunities for geothermal and solar projects, which can be combined with resources from the Nebraska Energy Loan. By utilizing stretch financing or bond dollars, institutions can secure the necessary funding for comprehensive infrastructure projects over the allocated $4.5 million at the State of Nebraska level.
Conclusion
Navitas is committed to helping clients achieve critical infrastructure projects by navigating legislative challenges, leveraging creative financing options, and prioritizing energy-efficient solutions. Our approach meets immediate needs while delivering sustainable, long-term benefits for educational institutions, municipalities, and healthcare facilities. By working through strategic partnerships and innovative financing, they continue to pave the way for future-ready infrastructure across Nebraska.
Written by Shane Alexander, Business Development Manager, Navitas
Shane helps educate administrators on effective methods for completing school construction projects and how to utilize different funding opportunities. He collaborates closely with the district’s administrative team to ensure that all clients needs are fulfilled through this program. Drawing on his experience as a former school superintendent, he provides valuable insights to the Navitas project team ensuring these projects align with student needs and success. Reach out to Shane at salexander@navitas.us.com for more information.