Still, he echoed the caution voiced by Ellis, especially considering recent events such as Hurricane Katrina, which have pushed gas prices skyward. Because of those concerns, the money will probably not fund projects that require ongoing funding.

Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. said in a statement that he'll determine recommendations for the surplus when he begins working on his annual budget later this month.

"The numbers indicate that the Utah economy is strong and vibrant," Huntsman said.

Educators are also looking at ways to utilize their new money, even if all of their needs cannot be filled with the one-time funds. The state Board of Education already has a list of projects for the schools' share of the surplus: $10 million each for online testing and education technology; $15 million to make school buildings safer; $6 million for teacher supplies; $1 million for software to help children improve writing skills.

"I would hope they would get high consideration by legislators," board chairman Kim Burningham said.

Not all of that money will go to public education, however, because higher education can also tap the Uniform School Fund. Higher education administrators are "thrilled" with the economy, said spokeswoman Amanda Covington, but they have not specified possible projects.

The State Board of Regents, which oversees public higher education, is meeting next week with the State Building Board to talk more about capital development projects, with the regents' proposed budget expected in October.

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E-mail: jloftin@desnews.com