One recent classroom assignment included a question where the students had to come up with criteria. They had to decide on a list of things one should consider when choosing an appropriate post-secondary institution. One area that all groups considered important was a school's facilities.
Today, I gave a project which was completed in the BCIT library. I was thinking how the BCIT library had improved in recent years. Whereas, most people only attend a school several years themselves, they do continue affecting the public institutions. They, hopefully, find gainful employment. This allows them to continue contributing during their working years through taxes.
Eventually, the students who are currently making use of the facilities, will pay years of taxes for future improvements too. As long as the institution is successful, it will continue. That's a nice thought.