What is the purpose of the Campus Master Plan?
The campus master plan serves as the touchstone for all development of the physical environment at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, both in the immediate and more distant future. Changes to the campus environment, from a new building to a bike path, must be planned in accordance with the standards established in the plan. By clearly designating potential building sites, open spaces, wayfinding standards, pedestrian walkways and the other myriad components that go into making a campus, the university establishes a clear image and sense of place.
Like all plans, however, the campus master plan is only effective if it is used. It is critical that the plan be a living document that reflects ongoing discussion between students, faculty, staff, and alumni, as well as the community at large. The plan, although very specific in many aspects, must also be flexible in order to respond to changing needs and demands in teaching, research and service.
From day-to-day decisions with regard to physical and environmental aspects of campus to more long range planning of how campus will look in 50 years, the campus master plan is the critical component. By knowing where we want to go and having a roadmap on how to get there, the UAF campus will grow in a positive, thoughtful manner. Through careful stewardship, the character of this very special campus will be protected for many generations of students to come.
