Facilities Services Concept Plan for ‘Campus Hill Quad'
(03-03)

At its regularly scheduled meeting on May 22, 2003, the UAF Campus Master Planning Committee approved the following recommendation regarding the so-called Campus Hill Quad (aka “Fountain of Flags Plaza”). The recommendation is in keeping with UAF’s current master plan approved in 2002. It responds in part to a short-term need to restore the Quad to useable condition in the aftermath of construction (equipment to be removed June 2003). However, it also reflects the desire of the MPC to use this transition to make the Quad a more inviting and attractive year-round space into the future.

RECOMMENDATION: “The UAF Campus Master Planning Committee endorses execution of the plan for the lower campus quad as presented in graphic form to the Committee at its May 22, 2003 meeting by Facilities Services.” (Motion—Craven, second—Seifert; vote on motion 10 yeas, 2 nays, 2 abstentions)

Key elements of this plan involve using available funds in summer 2003 to make modest changes to existing walkways and landscaping, dismantle the fountain and convert it into a gathering/seating area, retain the flags in an appropriate display, add picnic tables, and move the statue of Dr. Bunnell to a site closer to the Bunnell Building itself.

Additionally, the plan calls for removal of the plaza visitor parking—consistent with the current master plan—so that the Quad’s potential as a central gathering space can be realized. The MPC envisions moving visitor parking spaces displaced by this action to the South and West Eielson lots. It also recommends providing a turnaround/dropoff area and handicapped parking at the east end of the South Eielson lot.

The decision to recommend removal of the plaza visitor parking lot this summer generated much discussion and debate in the MPC. The Committee rejected an amendment to the above motion that would have recommended postponing removal of parking pending further study and input. A large majority of MPC members believe that the impending end of the construction is the appropriate time to relocate this parking given that its use has been disrupted for some time. Having noted this, we recognize that visitors and short-term users need ready access to Signers’ Hall and adjacent buildings. We believe this need can be addressed by using redesigned South and West Eielson lots.

Importantly, the MPC believes this short-term plan is a vital step toward major renovations of the Quad that we hope could be realized within 2-3 years. This longer-term plan would include significant redesign of walkways and plaza areas, additional landscaping, creation of a small amphitheater that can be used for classes and social events, and location of artwork and lighting that would enhance the Quad’s attractiveness and safety. It could include circular gathering spaces like those near Constitution Hall that provide a more intimate, human scale to the Quad. It might include a significant piece of lighted artwork at its center that symbolizes UAF’s mission and unique location. It might even include a warming facility/greenhouse located adjacent to Rasmuson Library’s south side that would invite year-round use.

Longterm planning for the Quad should include development of interpretive displays in the walkway between Brooks and Duckering buildings that highlight UAF’s history in contributing to Alaska’s mining industry.

While funding for this longterm development of the Quad is uncertain, the MPC believes that this is an appropriate time to develop an approved concept plan and funding strategy. With your support, the MPC will continue to work with the ad hoc landscaping committee, the landscaping consultant (WRT), and Facilities Services in developing an appropriate concept by mid-summer 2003. A funding strategy could include approaches to alumni or other private funding sources. The Rasmuson Foundation has been suggested as a possible source given its support for the adjacent library. We will be working with Pamela Davis and the Development Office to explore this possibility.

Thank you.

University of Alaska Fairbanks
Tanana Valley Campus
PO Box 8040-UAF

Phone: +1 907 474 7920
Fax:    +1 907 474 6725
fndlm5@uaf.edu