IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) – Parts of a major cost-savings initiative at Iowa’s three public universities may not save as much or happen as fast as initially projected. Last year, the Iowa Board of Regents and Deloitte Consulting predicted the universities would save $16-$40 million in two years by renegotiating purchasing contracts.

Mark Braun, who’s leading the cost-saving effort, said Wednesday that Deloitte’s purchasing recommendations were “more aggressive in their approach and their timeline” than will be reality. A new report projects the universities will save $3.9 million to $7.8 million annually in buying items such as food and computers. Braun said additional savings could later be pursued in other areas.

A second report says the University of Iowa will save less than projected by restructuring its administration because the medical college will be excluded.