Master Plan October 2011 - Pacific Lutheran University

MASTER PLAN CONCEPT
MASTER PLAN CONCEPT
The master plan concept responds to an analysis of the existing conditions and future needs of the campus and is derived from the PLU culture
and mission and the master plan goals and objectives. The 1997 Framework Plan was a helpful springboard. That plan sought to improve
internal and external campus connections and preserve the historic elements of campus that express the University’s Lutheran heritage.
The updated Campus Master Plan strengthens the same connections while conserving and enhancing areas of campus that are highly valued
and improving areas that are weaker by comparison. In addition, improvements to interaction, and thus a sense of community, are proposed
by increasing pedestrian linkages, improving existing facilities, siting potential new development where appropriate, and identifying landscape
improvements.
A central element of the plan is preserving the character of the upper campus while bringing the quality of lower campus to a similar level by
increasing the tree canopy, improving pedestrian linkages, refurbishing the UC Pond and replacing, renovating and/or expanding athletic and
recreation facilities in a way that will increase this area’s sense of place.
Campus connections between the upper and lower campus and future athletic fields are also strengthened in the plan. Campus edge
improvements include a new main entrance, improved pedestrian access to Garfield Street and around the entire campus, pedestrian safety
strategies on 121st, Park and 124th Streets, and landscape improvements along the bordering streets. Specific development projects are also
identified, including suggested renovation or replacement of buildings to meet programmatic needs and/or preserve the existing building stock.
Each recommendation was identified and further developed within the context of an analysis of projected space needs and functional
relationships, an assessment of existing buildings and infrastructure, and an evaluation of the structure and quality of existing circulation,
open space, campus edges and connections to adjacent communities. As needs change and funding becomes available, this plan provides a
framework and structure for future development while conserving the best qualities of the existing campus. Given the realities of funding and a
projected moderate near-term growth rate for the college, the long-term plan may not be completed for many years.
November 2011
Pacific Lutheran University MIMP
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