Dec 21, 2006 3:31 pm US/Central
SMU Expected Site For Bush Presidential Library
DALLAS (AP) ―
The committee studying where to place the George W. Bush Presidential Library said Thursday it is entering into discussions with Southern Methodist University.
First lady Laura Bush's alma mater had been rumored to be the front-runner ahead of the two other finalists, Baylor University near the couple's Crawford ranch and the University of Dallas.
The library's site selection committee said it was entering into its next phase of deliberations and was entering into "further discussions" with SMU, according to a statement by committee member Donald L. Evans, former commerce secretary.
A final decision is expected in a few months, said Evans' spokesman Taylor Griffin.
SMU officials planned to comment at an afternoon news conference.
SMU has never publicly discussed its library proposal or other aspects of trying to land the library. Officials have said they have several site options for the library if the school were chosen.
The 11,000-student school bought a condominium complex as a possible library complex site but then was sued last year by two men accusing SMU of intimidating residents to make them vacate.
Earlier this month a judge ruled that SMU has clear title to the condominium complex, clearing the way for the university to evict the remaining residents and tear down the condominiums.
Bush's library is expected to cost at least $200 million, financed with private donations. The library is expected to draw 500,000 visitors annually and bring millions to the local economy.
(© 2006 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
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