CORVALLIS, Ore. -- The students are gone on winter break, but Oregon State University hasn't exactly been quiet.

Though the campus seems empty, heavy equipment has been growling steadily behind chain-link fence perimeters.

University representatives say OSU is in the midst of its greatest construction boom since the 1970s, with nearly $180 million in major projects currently under way or in design.

Most of those are building improvements, such as the new equestrian arena and horse treadmill for Acheson Veterinary Teaching Hospital.

But the university also is planning its most expensive new academic building ever in the $62.5 million Linus Pauling Center. That should be under construction about a year from now.

The university's first-ever campuswide fundraiser aims to collect $625 million, with $126 million earmarked for facilities and equipment.