Improvement Goals Continued
4. SITE IMPROVEMENTS - LANDSCAPE/SITE AMENITIES A major emphasis of this plan is to enhance the character of the campuses by adding landscape and site amenities to the spaces between buildings. This effort will involve the elimination of vehicular traffic crossing the campuses, providing well landscaped and lighted parking areas, and providing access to the buildings for service and emergency. It is anticipated that this work will span numerous years. However, the first phase of the work needs to make an impact on the campuses and set the standard for future efforts.
5. INFRASTRUCTURE (below ground) Although not visually apparent to the casual observer, the below ground infrastructure of the campuses require a major financial investment to replace and extend, where necessary, water, sewer, gas, storm sewers, electrical, telephone, and data communication lines. This work should precede other site improvements to minimize disruptions in recently installed parking areas, sidewalks, and landscaping.
6. WAYFINDING-SIGNAGE/GRAPHICS/CAMPUS IMAGE A study by The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching determined that the most significant characteristic that influenced prospective students during campus visits is the appearance of the campus. The campuses will need a coordinated signage system. A color/building letter system would simplify identification and wayfinding for visitors and students.
7. STUDENT SPACES/STUDENT GATHERINGS As future development occurs on both campuses, exterior student gathering places as well as student spaces dedicated inside new or renovated buildings should be planned. Accommodating the needs of students between classes is a major factor in keeping the students on the campus and providing them a “sense of belonging.”
8. TECHNOLOGY UPDATES The most significant impact in the method used to deliver educational services in recent years has been technological advances. Although the College has made a considerable investment in terms of time and money, it is clear that the future will continue to demand additional technology updates. This report recommends that the College formalize a Technology Master Plan in the same way the College is developing an Academic/Instructional Master Plan, this Facilities Master Plan, College Maintenance Plan, and other long range planning documents.