Western Carolina University

The new vision for Western Carolina University, 2020 Vision: Focusing Our Future, articulates the following:

GOAL 5.2: Develop a comprehensive University master plan.

Initiative 5.2.1: Charge a task force consisting of representatives of internal and external constituents and supported by an external consultant to develop a comprehensive campus master plan that takes into account such factors as anticipated enrollment growth, the environment, sustainability, energy efficiency, core infrastructure needs, building priority needs, departmental/unit consolidation, technology infrastructure, campus safety and security, green space, transportation, campus design standards, and the integration of the campus with the surrounding community. The comprehensive plan will include the following components:

1. a comprehensive facility condition assessment for existing buildings and infrastructure (utilities, information technology, roads, etc.)
2. a campus sustainability plan that aligns with the UNC Sustainability Policy
3. an assessment and prioritization of core infrastructure needs in light of emerging technologies
4. an assessment and prioritization of new building needs
5. a prioritized plan for addressing repair and renovation needs
6. incorporation of green space throughout the campus
7. a plan to consolidate like parts of individual units/colleges where possible
8. a campus parking and transportation plan that facilitates access to education sites and includes investment in multimodal options such as bike lanes, greenways, etc.
9. a process for allocating and budgeting space as a core resource to maximize space utilization
10. a plan to ensure the integration of campus development with the community surrounding the University

To accomplish this task, the WCU Campus Master Planning Committee is charged with the authority and oversight of all campus master planning activities necessary to ensure fulfillment of the goal above.  The Campus Master Planning Committee, in consultation with the Chancellor’s Executive Council and the WCU Board of Trustees, will

• direct the scope and activities of an external firm contracted to support master planning activities,
• seek input at regular intervals from critical campus and community stakeholders,
• form, as necessary, subcommittees to address key aspects of the master plan, and
• ensure timely completion of the plan. 

The Campus Master Planning Committee will recommend a final master plan to the WCU Board of the Trustees by December of 2013.