FIU: 3-day weekends save money

State universities are finding all kinds of ways to save money, and in one case it means three-day weekends all summer.

FIU President Mitch Maidique, in his latest budget update to students, faculty, and staff, says the Miami institution this summer will shift to a 4-day work week of 10-hour days, allowing FIU to shut down on Fridays and reduce utility and other costs. Maidique estimates it will save $250,000 in utility costs alone.

FIU, facing a $12-million budget cut for the upcoming year and already having lost $10-million this year, also will sell some of the 200 vehicles it owns but does not use full-time.

A town hall meeting to discuss budget cuts comes May 22, and the trustees vote June 17 on final cuts.