college and university planning

for Universities and Colleges

CAMPUS DESIGN, PLANNING & PHYSICAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

is a global planning and urban design firm with a focus on campus design, planning & physical resource management for educational institutions.

URBAN STRATEGIES

Post-secondary education and research play an increasingly significant role in our lives, however, a host of issues are dramatically reshaping the college and university setting and experience.

• Enrolment levels are declining, resulting in increased competition for students and funding. There is a need to appeal to a diverse student body and provide an education and an experience that is affordable and of high-quality.

• Dramatic changes in how we communicate and access information are changing pedagogy. Learning can happen anywhere and many social and study spaces are merging. Facilities and space management practices must be flexible to accommodate unforeseen needs.

• Research and innovation extend beyond the campus, and have become key economic drivers for both institutions and their host communities. There is an increased emphasis on research, outreach and job training success. There are also more opportunities for partnerships, further expanding the range of funding streams and project mandates.

We assist post-secondary educational institutions in the design of campus environments, the management of physical assets and creation of policy that promotes learning, research and campus building objectives.

Still, a college’s campus and setting remains one of its most important assets. The campus setting defines an institution’s image, provides amenity and supports community. Campus facilities and the infrastructure required to support activities are often in need of significant renewal. Issues of facility obsolescence, un-utilized capacity, and deferred maintenance need to be addressed while identifying opportunities for growth that is resilient and sustainable.

These, and many other issues, make for very challenging times, but for those institutions that can position themselves to address these challenges, there are exciting opportunities as well.

In our experience, successful campus planning goes beyond the physical design of the campus to align trends in education, demographics and needs of the broader community, such as transportation and economic development.

iiiURBAN STRATEGIES INC.

Urban Strategies understands the dynamics of change for colleges and universities. We help our clients realize positive change.

Who We Are 2Our Approach 3Our Services 4Our Team 6Experience

Princeton University 8Cornell University 12University of Toronto 18University of Ottawa 22University of Cincinnati 26McMaster University 28Brock University 30University of Waterloo 34Ryerson University 36University of Western Ontario 38York University 40University of Minnesota 41University of Ontario Institute of Technology 44Queen’s University 46Ramapo College 48Cuyahoga College 50University of Guelph 51University of Manchester 54

CONTENTS

2

Urban Strategies Inc. is an award-winning planning and urban design firm. The firm’s Partners, Principals, Associates, and Staff come from diverse backgrounds, including architecture, planning, economics, environmental science, landscape architecture, public administration, and the visual arts.

We are able to engage in the changing academic and economic climate in which educational institutions plan and operate. We shape and enhance places of all scales through strategic actions, design, and policies.

WHO WE ARE

3URBAN STRATEGIES INC.

Aligning Physical Planning Priorities with your Overall Mission

The mandate for any campus planning study is to support the institution and its mission. Although academic and research priorities are always paramount, ensuring physical resources and academic objectives are aligned is essential.

Establishing a Framework to Create a Remarkable and Beautiful Campus SettingOur plans will protect and enhance the positive qualities of your campus setting while mediating and overcoming negative attributes or challenges. We align investment in infrastructure and new landscape to support a range of building opportunities. Most importantly, we create campuses that are beautiful, efficient, and can support your sense of community and identity.

Promoting Sustainability and the Responsible Stewardship of Natural Assets Promoting sustainable development is a priority for most institutions, however defining and measuring sustainable development is harder to achieve. For us, sustainability starts at the scale of the campus and is inherent in what we do.

Utilizing an Open and Transparent Planning and Design ProcessAll of our work is grounded in the aspirations of the institutions we work with, including their faculty, staff, administration, and students. We respect the values our clients bring to our process and our work “fits” within existing contexts and support a sense of place and community.

OUR APPROACH

4 CAMPUS DESIGN, PLANNING & PHYSICAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

We provide the following services, often concurrently within a project, or on an “as required” basis. Our long-standing relationships with many of our clients allow us to effectively provide on-going advice regarding a range of design, planning, and management issues.

Campus Master Plans Urban Strategies can lead the multi-disciplinary effort required to produce a comprehensive master plan, complete with planning principles, a long-range vision of the physical campus, a plan to guide short-term projects, management policies, and an implementation strategy.

Strategic Campus Plan UpdatesWhen the focus is on meeting short-term objectives, Urban Strategies can update the established campus vision accordingly and identify the key initiatives required, as well as mechanisms to implement them.

Open Space Master PlansOpen spaces are the connective tissue and a vital amenity for most universities and colleges. Urban Strategies understands how the landscape can enhance the environment and image of an institution.

Land Management Strategies As land becomes an increasingly valuable resource to colleges and universities, assessing land requirements and developing strategies for the disposal of surplus lands become important exercises.

Physical AuditsEvolving pedagogy and technological change mean many facilities require upgrading or complete redevelopment. Building condition will also inform investment priorities. Urban Strategies can assist in documenting existing conditions, determining needs, and prioritizing building renewal.

Site Selection and Development Feasibility AnalysisWe are adept at defining the criteria, program requirements, and external constraints that inform site selection, ensuring the best possible use and fit for development.

OUR SERVICES

CHAPTER 3 CAMPUS VISION 23

CHAPTER 1

introductionCHAPTER 3

Campus Vision

This chapter describes the long-term vision for the

campus. The campus vision, illustrated through

the long-term demonstration plan, is the physical

manifestation of the planning principles and key

directions that played an important role in guiding the

development and physical structure of the Campus

Plan.

CHAPTER 4 CAMPUS PLAN 55

150 residential units – 180,000 sq.ft160 parking spaces for residential and retail uses – 74,000sq.ft

35,000 sq.ft. university office space 62,000 sq.ft retail uses

150 residential units – 180,000 sq.ft140 parking spaces for residential and retail uses (52,000sq.ft)

20,000 sq.ft retail uses

Scenario 2 phase 1 demonstration plan

Scenario 2 phase 2 demonstration plan

Scenario 2 - Phase 1

Scenario 2 - Phase 2

Proposal Call and Design Competition Management When purchase, investment, or a designer is being sought for University-owned land or building projects, Urban Strategies will ensure the interests of the institution are looked after and a transparent, appropriate selection process is conducted.

28 Ramapo College

3.1 Land UseThe future campus structure and functions will be much like those of the campus today. The academic complex will continue to be the focal point for academic activity, centered around the Phase 1 Academic Building, to ensure a compact and walkable core. Academic uses, and specifically instructional activity, will be prioritized in the Phase 1 Academic Building. Renewal of existing facilities in the academic complex will continue to be the highest priority. Three centers of campus life have been identified as the focal areas for student service, library, and administrative functions. These centers will accommodate much of the near-term campus expansion to address space shortage issues. They will also create new opportunities to improve the Ramapo experience for all members of the campus population.

Residential uses will be located in the residential ‘villages’ at the periphery of the academic complex. The current residential surplus may allow conversion of residences to other compatible uses, and some residential areas may support intensified development if required in the long-term. Athletic uses will continue to evolve west of Ramapo Valley Road and in the north campus, and will be enhanced through a series of landscape and movement-related initiatives. The campus land use structure is illustrated in Figure 9.

Buildings and land uses on the Ramapo Campus today

Examples of our campus master plan reports

Queen’s University Master Plan Street Section


Campus Community ConsultationUrban Strategies routinely steers master plan projects through rigorous consultation processes. The keys to success: reach out early, communicate clearly and plainly, and listen. We use a full range of techniques, from face-to-face communication to comprehensive online and social media strategies, including Campus Compass®, our proprietary online survey tool. The Campus Compass® can be used to solicit input through quantitative and qualitative methods, and can be easily integrated with GIS data and other analytics.

Design GuidelinesUrban Strategies has the skills and background necessary to develop clear, effective design guidelines for the development and improvement of a campus’ buildings, landscape, infrastructure, and natural environment.

Town-Gown StudiesAn institution’s impact on surrounding communities often raises sensitive town-gown issues. With its breadth of experience, Urban Strategies can recommend a consultation process and planning approach to address them.

Research/Innovation Park PlanningUniversities are capitalizing on the development of research and technology parks and incubator centers on and off campus. Urban Strategies understands the economics and site planning of such ventures.

Municipal and Agency Policy Services Urban Strategies has extensive technical and policy knowledge, which allows us to secure the regulatory and development approvals required to successfully implement master plans. Our expertise preparing planning rationales on complex projects with multi-disciplinary teams gives us the ability to provide our clients with dynamic and actionable strategies for their campuses.

Basic Building Components and Schemative Building Envelope and Massing Demonstration illustrating flexibilty in the University of Toronto Urban Design Guidelines

Interfaceof ourCampus Compass® tool


The firm’s Partners, Principals, Senior Associates, Associates and complement of planners and designers come from diverse backgrounds, including architecture, economics, environmental science, landscape architecture, planning, public administration and the visual arts.

Urban Strategies assigns a customized team of professional staff to all projects to reflect the uniqueness of the challenge. Teams are led by a partner to provide overall direction and carefully guided by a project manager to ensure smooth, immediate information flow and continuing management of time and budget.

OUR TEAM


Joe Berridge

Melanie Hare

Mark Reid

Pino Di Mascio

Connie Pasqualitto

Michel Trocmé

George Dark

Frank Lewinberg

CyndiRottenberg-Walker

Warren Price

Eric Turcotte

Pascale Dionne

Mary Castel

Emily Reisman

Dennis Lago

Benjamin Hoff

Leigh McGrath

Tim Smith

Craig Lametti Daniel Comerford

Craig Cal Alex Elgin

Habon Ali Tyler Baker Danny Brown Josh Kohler

Mirej Vasic

Mihaly Szabo

Eva Pianezzola

Inger Jenset SquiresAnna Iannucci

Sirous Ghanbarzadeh

Geoff Whittaker

Christine Fang-Denissov

Andrea Friedman

Josh Neubauer

Tony De Franco Yiwen Zhu

PAR

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PRIN

CIPA

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SOCI

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Naomi Ish-Horowicz SolomonTaylor SouthomeAndrew SullivanChristie YuenJaea LeeSean Quin

PLAN

NER

S

DES

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ERS

SPEC

IALI

ZED

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FFAnna ProcopioLeah CookeAntonio De FrancoJennifer SunJulia BahenKevin HurleyMatthew KellingJames DiPaoloNeil Loewen

Na’ama BlonderDavid BurnsAnna IngebrigtsenSamuel LozeauJosh Turner


PRINCETON UNIVERSITYOur work includes:• Campus master planning• Space utilization assessment• Sustainability planning• Movement and

transportation planning• Facility “fit-to-function” analysis

and condition assessment• Facility programming analysis• Open space planning• Utilities and information

technology master planning• Design guidelines• Heritage asset planning• Campus community consultation

Princeton University is one of the oldest and most distinguished colleges in the United States. A world-renowned research university, Princeton sets itself apart with an equal commitment to undergraduate teaching. The University has a significant regional impact as one of its largest private employers and a destination for almost 800,000 annual visitors, generating $2 billion in economic activity. Princeton’s main campus includes 9 million square feet of space in 180 buildings spread across 500 acres. In total, the University owns more than 975 acres in Princeton, more than 895 acres in Plainsboro Township, and more than 510 acres in West Windsor Township. The University also has a robust residential system, accommodating 1,000 units of rental housing that total more than 1.2 million square feet. 98% of Princeton undergraduates live on campus.

Princeton, New Jersey


2026 Campus Plan(2014 - Present)We are leading an international, multi-disciplinary team on the most comprehensive campus planning project ever undertaken at Princeton. The Plan will identify wide-ranging options for campus development on both a 10- and 30-year time horizon. It will be the first plan to consider not only on the main campus, but also lands south of Lake Carnegie and in Princeton, West Windsor, and Plainsboro.

Respecting and celebrating the distinctive history and enduring traditions of the University, the Campus Plan will include strategies for the optimization of land use and campus design; integration of landscape, infrastructure,

sustainability, and resilience systems; and an analysis of the critical academic, social, and recreation elements of a successful campus.

Given the expansive scope of the study area and the two time horizons, the Plan will be a flexible framework that presents a diverse slate of opportunities to develop the campus. For some areas, the Plan will provide details for specific development projects in the 10-year planning horizon.

Other areas will receive broader parameters for the type and scale of change that may take place as the University evolves over the 30-year horizon, allowing for flexibility to respond as issues emerge in the future.

The Campus Plan and its associated Integrated Utilities and Information Technology Infrastructure Master Plan are coordinated with the wider institutional planning process, including the University’s Strategic Plan and Sustainability Plan update.

above: Campus model of existing conditions


1. Strategic development of the Central Campus

The Central Campus will continue to be the focus for current and future academic needs with a priority adaptation of underutilized facilities and the strategic use of key sites. Some sites will be reserved for priority uses in the long term. This approach will better integrate all campus lands into a cohesive land use strategy.

2. Enhance and accentuate the Lake Carnegie landscape

As the campus evolves, the Lake Carnegie landscape will become more central to the experience of the full campus. The woodland fingers, the natural landscape that connects the lake to the campus, will be extended and restored. Access to the lake will be improved with a series of new trails.

3. Explore potential locations for University-related housing and affordable housing

The locations include Butler Tract, Alexander Corridor, in the context of mixed-use development and West Windsor.

The University has identified 6 key directions to guide the physical evolution of the study area.


4. Consider the development of the West Windsor lands

Explore the potential development of facilities to support:

• Academics• Administration• Athletics and recreation• Housing• Innovation

5. Reserve the Springdale lands for long-term use to support Princeton’s educational mission

Over time, this will include the improvement to natural settings, habitat, and public access. The plan will recognize the benefits of proximity to the Central Campus, the Lewis Center, Forbes College, and the Graduate College.

6. Promote walking and cycling to and through the campus

The plan will promote and expand improvements to the cycling and pedestrian network, on campus and into the community. Strategies for reducing parking demand will be considered, as well as improvement and enhancement of transit options. Potential improvements to traffic flow along and across Route 1 will support these strategies.


CORNELL UNIVERSITYCornell University is one of the world’s leading academic and research institutions. The campus occupies more than 2,400 acres of land in upstate New York, with over 500 buildings in a full range of settings—from urban neighborhoods, to iconic quadrangles, rural fields and dramatic natural areas. The University provides an exceptional quality of facilities and campus experience— reflecting Cornell’s academic and research preeminence. Urban Strategies’ campus design, planning strategies, and physical space audits have helped Cornell University manage and renew its significant physical assets within a complex administrative structure.

Ithaca, New York

Our work includes:• Campus Master Planning• Open Space Master Planning• Facility and Space

Needs Planning • Agricultural and Natural

Area Land Management and Stewardship Strategies

• Building Condition and Functional Space Audits

• Design Guidelines• Campus Community Consultation


Athletics FacilitiesMaster Plan (2014)Urban Strategies was retained to provide input and direction into the Athletic Facilities Master Plan. Cornell sought to review and clarify the recommended strategies for the location of athletic facilities on the campus, as outlined in the 2008 Comprehensive Master Plan, which included the potential relocation of certain facilities to areas outside of the Core Campus. Our scope of work included the preparation of a memorandum summarizing the planning objectives for new athletic facilities on the campus, as well as an analysis of relevant policy directions, land use considerations, and implementation strategies. Urban Strategies also participated in a design charrette and provided strategic advice with respect to alternative concept options to ensure alignment with the overall vision for the Ithaca campus.

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) Facility Master Plan (2010)Continuing the work of the Campus Master Plan, this project was a more detailed facilities planning strategy, including a building audit and a space utilization/allocation strategy to optimize use of CALS facilities and minimize liabilities related to deferred maintenance and underutilized, poor quality buildings. The plan also provides a detailed assessment of fields, facilities, and other research lands throughout New York State including the Geneva Agricultural Research Station.

above: Comprehensive Master Plan

right: College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Facilities Master Plan (Space Plan for the Life Sciences Cluster)


Comprehensive Campus Master Plan (2008)Cornell retained Urban Strategies as the project lead in urban planning, urban design, and landscape architecture for the Campus Master Plan; the University’s first master plan in more than 75 years. The Plan was intended to build connectivity at Cornell by linking its past to its innovative future, the University to its home communities, voices and disciplines across the campus, and people to the environment.

The project began with an extensive program of consultation. Nearly 300 stakeholders were consulted in one–on–one and small group meetings, including a variety of local community members and politicians. By engaging the larger Cornell community, we established a sense of goodwill that was critical to building support for the plan. This commitment to stakeholder outreach defined the master plan process, with extensive project oversight and consultation throughout the process to ensure consensus with all stakeholders in the university and community.

A comprehensive ‘Development Matrix’ was created to guide new growth. This matrix identified the development characteristics of each parcel (e.g. gross floor area, footprint size, height, use, etc.), and due to the complexity of many of the sites, identified university–led initiatives, supporting projects, and other initiatives that would have to take place before or in concert with the new development. Finally, the Cornell Campus Master Plan took a very comprehensive approach to landscape and open space. The open space strategy began at a regional level, creating a countryside line to limit development and protect rural and natural resources. Those natural resources also extend into the campus, forming the basis for a comprehensive landscape strategy.

Game Farm Road Research Complex (2004)Urban Strategies was retained to prepare a development framework and concepts for a 35–acre site close to its main campus. This framework recognizes the need to protect adjacent natural areas, make efficient use of infrastructure, and control public access. We demonstrated how the site can accommodate significantly more development while maintaining its rural character.

Awards

Canadian Institute of Planners Awards of Excellence for Urban Design, 2009

American Planning Association New York State Chapter, Award of Excellence, 2009

Canadian Society of Landscape Architects Award - Regional Honour, 2009

Design Exchange Award of Excellence for Urban Design, 2008


above: View of the Historic East Campus

left: View of the Proposed East Campus—Comprehensive Campus Master Plan

right: Comprehensive Campus Master Plan addresses developed areas, research lands, and environmental preserves

below: Comprehensive Master Plan


above: Proposed Alumni Quad


UNIVERSITY OF TORONTOThe University of Toronto is Canada’s largest university. It is known for its excellence in undergraduate and graduate teaching and outstanding research, all within a comprehensive range of disciplines, professional schools, and institutes. The University has three campuses, including the historic St. George campus in the heart of downtown Toronto, and a campus in the rapidly intensifying suburban community of Scarborough. Over the past two decades, Urban Strategies has helped shape both campuses through extensive visioning, open space and master planning, municipal approvals, and campus community consultation.

Toronto, Ontario

Our work includes:• Campus Master Planning • Open Space Master Planning • Design Guidelines • Town and Gown Communication

Strategies • Campus Community Consultation• Municipal and Agency

Policy Services

Open Space Master Plan


University of Toronto St. George Campus Secondary Plan (2015 - Present)On behalf of the University, Urban Strategies is working closely with City of Toronto staff and the community to develop a Secondary Plan for the historic, downtown St. George campus. The Secondary Plan forms part of the City’s formal planning policy so it must address the growth and development goals of the University alongside broader city-building goals. The Secondary Plan establishes a balanced approach to intensify the already built-up campus by directing growth to areas of campus that are less well used, while limiting change in the beloved historic areas. This approach provides much needed flexibility for the University to consider development potential across the campus as projects arise.

In order to provide some certainty to the City and the public about the scale and form of future development, the Secondary Plan takes a built-form approach to maintain a primarily mid-scale campus environment. Policies also enhance and grow the public realm through strategic open spaces, transforming city streets and conserving heritage properties and key views. A detailed and comprehensive set of Urban Design Guidelines provides further direction for each block. This new policy framework is intended to offer a more streamlined process to guide the next 20-30 years of growth on campus.

Matt Cohen Park

Huron Washington

Parkette

Back Campus

Philo

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Queen’s Park North

Queen’s ParkFront Lawn

Bloor St W

College St

Washington Ave

Sussex Ave

Charles St W

St Mary St

St Joseph St

Wellesley St W

Grosvenor St

Harbord St

Hoskin Ave

Classic Ave

Willcocks St

Russell St

Galbraith Rd

St G

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Not to scale

above: Character Areas Assessment

right: The Public Realm with proposed enhancements such as mid-block connections, a Western Campus Hub and Shared Streets.


University of Toronto Scarborough Campus Master Plan (2011, Ongoing)Founded in the mid-1960s as a satellite campus, the University of Toronto Scarborough Campus (UTSC) reached a critical juncture when new growth dramatically increased its footprint and population. The campus was also chosen as the site of the 2015 Pan Am Games aquatic facility and a new light rail transit route. Urban Strategies developed a Campus Vision and Campus Master Plan to provide bold new direction for UTSC. The project focused on a new Campus Core, designed to be a transit-supportive, mixed-use centre that links the North and South Campuses around a new rapid transit station. The Plan realigned the street network within the North

UTSC Campus Master Plan Section

University of Toronto Landscape of Landmark Quality (2015 - Present)Urban Strategies is part of the design team for the Landscape of Landmark Quality, selected from more than 600 entries in an international design competition. The consortium of KPMB Architects, Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates (MVVA), and Urban Strategies’ proposal aims to restore and beautify the central spaces of the University of Toronto’s historic St. George campus based on principles of promoting pedestrianism, cycling, green space, natural features, and high quality community spaces.

Campus to better support rapid transit service, and to create major new open spaces that enhance and celebrate the University’s unique history, natural setting, and identity. Since its completion, the Master Plan has guided development for over 50,000m2 of new campus facilities, including the

MVVA | KPMB | Urban Strategies

Pedestrian Tunnel to ParkingPavilion +

Garage Access

Alumni PlazaKnox College Parking Lot

Path

North Pavilion

NorthPavilion

Steps

Terraced Seating

LawnBike

ParkingElevator

Section A

Alumni PlazaThe pavilion at Prichard House provides sheltered gathering, bike parking, and a garage entrance at one of Front Campus’s most important thresholds. Aligned to the facades of its historic neighbors, the pavilion is sized and positioned to complement the architectural detail of Knox College while leaving the iconic Croft Chapter House unobstructed. The stepped entry to Prichard House becomes an expanded plaza with accessible paths to Kings College Circle and the pavilion. Seat walls embedded in grade and a field of light masts create a unified and distinctly contemporary space.

A A

right: Landscape of Landmark Quality (Image produced by Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, Inc.and KPMB Architects)

below: UTSC Campus Master Plan

award-winning Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre, the Environmental Science and Chemistry Building, and the Instructional Centre. Urban Strategies was retained in 2015 to build on this success and secure municipal approvals for the University of Toronto Scarborough Secondary Plan.


MVVA | KPMB | Urban Strategies

Pedestrian Tunnel to ParkingPavilion +

Garage Access

Alumni PlazaKnox College Parking Lot

Path

North Pavilion

NorthPavilion

Steps

Terraced Seating

LawnBike

ParkingElevator

Section A

Alumni PlazaThe pavilion at Prichard House provides sheltered gathering, bike parking, and a garage entrance at one of Front Campus’s most important thresholds. Aligned to the facades of its historic neighbors, the pavilion is sized and positioned to complement the architectural detail of Knox College while leaving the iconic Croft Chapter House unobstructed. The stepped entry to Prichard House becomes an expanded plaza with accessible paths to Kings College Circle and the pavilion. Seat walls embedded in grade and a field of light masts create a unified and distinctly contemporary space.

A A

University of Toronto Open Space Master Plan (2000)Urban Strategies created a plan for the St. George Campus that provided a clear direction for the future feel and image of the campus while responding to a range of development opportunities. Balancing the visionary with the pragmatic, the plan proposed significant enhancements to the University’s central green spaces, gateways, and pathway system, as well as improvements to major streets and intersections bordering the campus. It also called for extensive tree planting to restore the leafy oasis that the campus once was.

Awards

American Society of Landscape Architects Merit Award, 2001

Canadian Society of Landscape Architects National and Regional Merit Awards, 2001

City of Toronto Architecture and Urban Design Award of Excellence, 2001

all images: Open Space Master Plan


UNIVERSITY OF OTTAWAThe University of Ottawa is the largest bilingual university in North America. Located in the heart of Canada’s capital city, the University is proud to be an urban campus and has emerged as a vibrant “centre of learning” and a major player in the cultural and economic development of the National Capital Region. The University has in part achieved this through the synergies it has fostered with the downtown and neighbourhoods surrounding the campus. Characteristic of an urban university, the campus had primarily grown through intensification. As the campus matured and the last clean development sites were completed, future growth would involve the redevelopment of existing sites. Redevelopment projects, by nature, are complicated, requiring a careful approach to phasing and decanting existing uses. Urban Strategies has provided a strategic policy framework to address current priorities, landscape improvements, and specific open space projects to accommodate this growth.

Ottawa, Ontario

Our work includes:• Campus Master Planning• Open Space Master Planning• Land Management Strategies• Town/Gown Studies• Site Selection and Development

Feasibility Analysis• Design Guidelines• Research/Business Park Planning• Campus Community Consultation• Ongoing Consultation


Campus Master Plan Update (2015)Urban Strategies created a new Campus Master Plan (CMP), a process that provides an opportunity to reflect on how the campus has evolved, its strengths and weaknesses, and issues and trends that will influence future development. The plan establishes a vision and framework to guide how the University will transform over the next 20 years to accommodate the University’s evolving programs and activities, and to support the initiatives of its faculties, staff, and students. It focuses on identified and potential projects in the University’s 5-Year Capital Plan and provides a long-term framework for realizing the five goals for campus development. The Campus Master Plan initiative involved four phases of work over approximately two years, ending in summer 2015. Urban Strategies developed a highly consultative process and led many different types of public engagement activities to enable multiple audiences to provide input on the development of the CMP.

Awards

Canadian Institute of Planners Award of Excellence: Urban Design / Design Guidelines and Precinct Plans, 2016

Canadian Society of Landscape Architects National Award of Excellence: Planning & Analysis, 2016

National Urban Design Awards Certificate of Merit: Urban Design Plans, The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC), the Canadian Institute of Planners, and the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects, 2016

Ottawa Urban Design Award of Merit for Visions and Master Plans, 2015

left: University Square

right: King Edward Ave

below: Overall Campus view


above: Campus Framework

Development Sites

Land use

Green Armature

Mobility

Buildings to be Reconsidered


King Edward Precinct Study and Planning Approvals (2005)Urban Strategies prepared the planning rationale and obtained planning approvals to realize the King Edward Precinct strategies. The Precinct strategies focused on creating a new research area at the University’s edge. The plan proposed the transformation of the edge area as a mixed use precinct serving both the Sandy Hill Community and the University. The plan preserved key heritage elements and integrated new public realm improvements. Of particular focus in this study was managing the ‘town and gown’ issue between campus life and the surrounding neighbourhood of Sandy Hill. This issue was addressed through an intensive consultation process that involved residents, the University, and students. Consultation informed detailed criteria for evaluating future development proposals in this area.

Land Strategies and Feasibility Analyses (Ongoing)Since first working with the University in 2003, Urban Strategies has prepared a series of land strategies and feasibility analyses. In response to a proposed North/South LRT line, Urban Strategies analyzed the development potential of the Arts Court Site. The objective of the study was to understand how the Arts Courts Site could be best developed to capitalize on the LRT investment while integrating with the historic buildings and surrounding area. Currently, Urban Strategies is working on a land strategy that responds to the planned Rideau to Hurdman LRT corridor. In anticipation of the LRT line, Urban Strategies is carrying out an inventory and ownership analysis of lands around future transit stops in order to secure land development rights where feasible.

Campus Master Plan (2003)The 2003 Campus Master Plan managed development and growth by establishing strategic priorities for the Campus, as well as providing a new framework to guide its continued evolution as an urban campus. The intent of the Campus Master Plan was to improve the physical quality of the Campus, meet the current and anticipated needs of its population, strengthen the University of Ottawa’s ongoing competitiveness, and guide the management of the operational and infrastructure needs that support growth.

There were three components to the project. The first component examined the central Campus Master Plan and determined how best to complete the central campus in terms of landscaping, buildings, servicing, and parking.

left: Location of precincts of the UOttawa campus within surrounding neighbourhood

The second component examined the University-owned lands in what would become a new plan for the King Edward Precinct. This process involved examining new lands for potential development and working the University, the community, the City, and stakeholders to create a plan that integrates the University and the community along the seam. The third component focused on creating new relationships with the neighbourhood to the north/east of the campus to understand how the university could engage this neighbourhood and contribute to the ongoing revitalization of the area and downtown Ottawa. An integrated open space and transportation strategy, absent from the previous master plan, was used to tie together the elements of the campus.


UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATIThe University of Cincinnati is a top tier university with 44,000 undergraduate and graduate students, and expansive facilities that include an uptown campus and two regional campuses. With buildings by some of the world’s most renowned architects, the University’s campus design program has been named one of the most ambitious in the country. The University also plays a vital role as the largest employer in the region with an economic impact of more than $3 billion.

Cincinnati, Ohio

Our work includes:• Campus Master Planning • Open Space Master Planning • Design Guidelines • Town and Gown Communication

Strategies • Campus Community Consultation• Municipal and Agency

Policy Services


University of Cincinnati Mixed Use Mid-Rise Facility (2015)The University of Cincinnati is an increasingly urbanizing campus, located in the heart of an uptown that is experiencing considerable transformation. Urban Strategies prepared a precinct plan for a proposed mixed use mid-rise residential facility located at the former site of the Sawyer Hall student residence building. The precinct plan identifies the need to define the intersection of town and university at the location of the new facility, and provides a framework that responds to the evolution occurring both on campus and within the surrounding community. The design and development criteria outlined in the plan propose establishing an architecturally excellent campus anchor in order to harness and foster nearby pedestrian flows and interact with the adjacent Campus Green open space. The criteria also speak to the creation of a transit hub that could be integrated into the design of the new facility. Combined with a reduction of vehicular access to surrounding streets, the hub would contribute to furthering the pedestrianization of the campus.

right: Preliminary massing study

below: Existing transportation networks and facilities analysis

METRO Stop Service Area

Regional Bus Stop(may be relocated)

Campus Shuttle Routes

Zipcar StationCampus Gateways

Campus Parking

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PUptown Connector LRT (Proposed)

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MCMASTER UNIVERSITYMcMaster University has experienced dynamic growth in both facilities and enrolment within the past decade. Urban Strategies has worked with McMaster University to identify opportunities to accommodate this growth on a constrained site within some of Hamilton’s most beautiful historic neighborhoods. Our work has ensured that key campus open spaces are protected, and that new development fits within the campus and surrounding community environment. Our plans promote alternatives to the private automobile, ensuring access to the campus is in keeping with the character and capacity of the surrounding local streets. We have also identified emerging space needs and helped position the University to receive additional provincial funding.

Hamilton, Ontario

Our work includes:• Campus Master Planning• Strategic Campus Master

Plan Updates• Main Street Gateway Design and

Landscape Master Plan Design Competition Management

• Facility and Space Needs Planning – Campus Capacity Study

• Campus Access, Vehicular Circulation and Parking Management Planning

• Innovation Park Site Planning Analysis

• Design Guidelines• Town and Gown

Communication Strategies• Campus Community Consultation• Other site studies and

ongoing consultation

Plan view of campus


Main Street North Entrance (1999)The Main Street North is the most public face of McMaster University and a key pedestrian and vehicular gateway to campus. Main Street is also a critical part of Hamilton’s street and transportation infrastructure and accommodates a large number of private and transit vehicles. We developed a plan for transportation improvements and set the stage for additional landmark campus development at this important location. Today, many of these transportation improvements are in place and the Engineering Technology Building has opened.

Campus Master Plan (2002)We were retained by McMaster University to prepare a comprehensive master plan. We undertook an extensive consultation process that engaged the University community, local residents, the City, the conservation authority and Hamilton’s transit commission. The results established a framework for future development that extends the structure of the campus’s historic core to its periphery while respecting the surrounding built and open space context.

Innovation Park Planning Analysis (2003)Urban Strategies lead the Capacity and Planning analysis for Innovation Park. This study illustrated and tested potential access strategies; the location, configuration, and quantum of development; parking and transit strategies; land use options; stormwater management strategies; and the potential image and character of the campus.

Landscape Master Plan Design Competition Management (2005)Building from the campus design directions established in our campus master plan, a competition design brief was developed, highlighting landscape design objectives to be addressed by competition entrants. Urban Strategies was responsible for the management and administration of the two-stage competition, which included selection of the short-list of competition entrants, and selection and management of the competition jury.

Campus Master Plan Update (2008)Urban Strategies was retained to update the Campus Master Plan. A number of new buildings, landscapes, and streets needed to be reflected in the plan’s graphics and overall recommendations. There was also interest in confirming the number of potential development sites, the development capacity of the campus, and the opportunity for a transit hub near the Student Union Building.

Campus Capacity Analysis (2011)This study provided the physical and space management information within which to frame the discussion regarding growth at McMaster, ensuring the University continues to evolve in a balanced and sustainable manner across all its campuses. The study also supported provincial funding applications.

below: Landscape Master Plan Design Competition Winner - Fliesher Rideout Landscape Architects


BROCK UNIVERSITYLocated in the rapidly growing Niagara Region, and enjoying a beautiful setting on the Niagara Escarpment, Brock University’s campus is distinguished by a mix of natural and formal landscapes framed by modern, interconnected buildings. The University has more than doubled in size in recent years, now boasting a community of 500 researchers, one of the highest performing co-op programs in Canada, and a satellite campus in the nearby city of Hamilton. It is also the only Canadian university located in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Over the past decade, Urban Strategies’ work has supported landscape, infrastructure, and facility planning initiatives at Brock, helping this small institution realize considerable growth while maintaining a strong sense of community, a high quality student experience, and a remarkable sense of place and identity.

St. Catharines, OntarioOur work includes:• Campus Master Planning• Open Space Master Planning• Facility and Space

Needs Planning • Utilities Master Planning and

Proposal Call Management • Academic Facility Feasibility and

Site Location Strategies • Design Guidelines• Town and Gown Related Planning• Campus Community Consultation• Other Site Studies, Proposal Calls

and Ongoing Consultation


Brock University Campus Plan Update (2016)Despite rapid growth, Brock University faces a series of challenges including an anticipated period of static or declining enrollment, buildings in poor physical condition, and increased transit needs. Responding to these emerging needs and challenges, the 2016 Campus Plan outlines a vision to deliver much-needed campus infrastructure, renew the campus setting and facilities, integrate with the surrounding cities, and support a range of partnership opportunities. The Plan translates these directions into a comprehensive framework for the evolution and growth of the campus, with implementation directions captured in detailed design guidelines. The proposed East Campus Mixed Use Development serves as an early stage public-private partnership opportunity that will create a new gateway image for the Brock District and establish a vibrant, connected centre for both the University and St. Catharines.

1. Strengthen the relationship with the natural setting

2. Reinforce and connect the campus centres 3. Engage with the surrounding city

right: Plan view of campus

below: Physical Structure - Key Place-Making Moves


Campus Master Plan (2003)We prepared a comprehensive campus plan both to guide the University’s physical development and to serve as a day-to-day management tool. Based on a pattern of ‘landscape types,’ the Plan identified development sites, rationalized and coordinated infrastructure, and identified open spaces and natural areas for preservation and enhancement. An aggressive transportation demand management program proposed to reduce the amount of parking required by the campus and reduce pressure to develop sensitive natural areas. The Plan emphasized design excellence and quality of place to attract students, staff and faculty.

Awards

Ontario Professional Planners Institute Award for Planning Excellence, 2003

Brock University Facility Needs and Priorities Study (2008)This study assesses Brock’s facility needs, and identifies strategies and criteria for the distribution of potential new facilities. Our work included a review of the current use of teaching and research spaces, and the identification of priority facility needs, such as smaller classrooms, additional wet research labs, and new administrative office space. Our study also informed programming for a number of other projects under development at the University, such as the new Science Building and additional space for the Faculty of Education. This plan is currently being updated by Urban Strategies and ECS.

Other Ongoing Studies (2004 - Present)Urban Strategies undertook a study to develop an athletics program and corresponding physical plan to fit the program into one of the University’s preferred sites. The study is designed to help the University pursue emergent opportunities, and uses 3D modelling and compelling visualizations to animate potential directions. Urban Strategies has also been involved in a plan for Brock’s east campus, a proposal call for a Utilities Master Plan, and a plan for integrating movement development and landscape initiatives in the North Mall.

Brock/St. Catharines Project (2008)As part of Levitt Goodman Architects’ team, we completed a program, site, and feasibility study for a cultural and academic development in downtown St. Catharines. We identified a range of potential sites and developed selection criteria to finalize a location and guide project development. The evaluation criteria responded to a range of objectives, including accommodating the program while promoting downtown revitalization; preserving the natural and cultural heritage of downtown; identifying a site with the appropriate access and profile; promoting synergies with existing and proposed developments; and identifying public realm initiatives to be completed as part of the development of this project. Our work also included a thorough review of both government and University policy.

150 residential units – 180,000 sq.ft

160 parking spaces for residential and retail uses – 74,000sq.ft

35,000 sq.ft. university office space

62,000 sq.ft retail uses

above: Project demonstration plan


above: View of Master Plan

below: North Mall Planning Study


The University of Waterloo is the anchor for one of North America’s most successful technology clusters, home to Blackberry, Google, Open Text, and other innovation leaders. Urban Strategies has provided master planning services to the University since 1989, building an exceptional academic and research campus, providing strategic real estate advice aligned with the commercialization of technologies, leveraging economic development opportunities, and creating a sense community to strengthen the cluster.

Waterloo, Ontario

Our work includes:• Campus Master Planning • Strategic Campus Master

Plan Updates • Open Space Master Planning • Land Management Strategies • Design Guidelines • Research / Business Park Planning• Campus Community Consultation • Ongoing Consultation

Campus Master Plan Update (2007)The new master plan updates the 1989 plan written by Urban Strategies, and is organized around a central pedestrian and landscape corridor. It provides a framework for new development at the campus’ urban edges as well as guidelines for open space enhancement. It also identifies significant opportunities for infill and intensification. Campus growth was positioned around future light rail transit investments, emphasizing rigorous transportation demand management to reduce parking and support alternative transportation. Our multi-faceted approach to consultation engaged graduate architecture and planning students in the design process, and included both traditional open houses and a robust digital program.

UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO

Research and Technology Park (R+T Park) (2002) and North Campus Development Handbook (2006)Urban Strategies prepared a master plan, development handbook, and design guidelines for the 111-acre North Campus Research + Technology Park, supporting over 1.2 million ft2 of space for private research and technology firms. The design was responsive to the adjacent Laurel Creek environmental reserve and neighbouring residential community. The second phase involved a master plan for the Northwest Campus, which created a framework for a new, mixed-use employment and institutional campus with linkages to R+T Park and the academic campus.

Campus Master Plan (1989)Urban Strategies was retained to clarify the University’s planning and development objectives, highlight opportunities for new research facilities, and establish an environmental framework for managing growth. The organizing element of the Master Plan was a natural reserve along Laurel Creek that improved linkages between the University and the city.

Awards

Canadian Institute of Planners Awards for Planning Excellence, Honourable Mention, 1993


upper left: Campus Master Plan Update

right: Research and Technology Park

below: Campus Master Plan Update


RYERSON UNIVERSITYWith more than 100 graduate and undergraduate programs and more than 40,000 students, Ryerson University is one of Canada’s largest universities. The University has become known for driving innovation and job creation, and its Digital Media Zone is now recognized as one of the Top 25 University Business Incubators in the world by Sweden’s University Business Incubator (UBI) Index. Ryerson is a uniquely cosmopolitan university with a student body that reflects the unparalleled cultural diversity of the Greater Toronto Area. Located in the heart of Downtown Toronto, Ryerson is situated in the midst of dramatic change, with vivid transformations in land uses and development driving greater intensification and higher land values. The University is both influenced by and is an integral part of this transformation, and must strike the right balance between establishing a foothold as a vertical urban campus while preserving the qualities of place that reinforce a distinct and special place in the city.

Toronto, Ontario

Our work includes:• Planning and policy analysis• Municipal development approvals• Urban design guidelines• Heritage asset planning• Development negotiation with

campus community

37URBAN STRATEGIES INC. 9202 JARVIS STREET

FIGURE 3: RECENT DEVELOPMENT IN THE AREA

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24 CONCEPTUAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

Option 2 PHASE 1 VIEW LOOKING NORTHWEST Option 2 FULL BUILD OUT VIEW LOOKING NORTHEAST

Option 2 Renderings

Vendor of Record(2015 - Present)We assist the University with exploring its development potential, understanding partnership opportunities, and securing complex development approvals. We provide strategic direction through a planning process designed both to influence and respond to the layers of studies and initiatives currently underway in and around the campus. Each potential development site is carefully considered to understand its relationship to surrounding uses, larger patterns of development, and the future of Ryerson campus, establishing a strong and sustainable position for the University. We have completed

a number of projects with major city building potential, including a three-phased development plan for a large science building that will establish an eastern gateway for the University. For the Church Street development, our urban design and development approvals expertise helped secure a high-rise academic/student residential building now under construction at the heart of the campus. We have assisted Ryerson in exploring their physical and programmatic relationship to new development applications at its edges, and are helping to position the adaptive re-use of heritage structures to contribute to a 21st century urban learning environment.

above: Conceptual rendering of 3-phase academic science building located at 202 Jarvis Street

below: Map showing the extent of proposed and new development surrounding the Ryerson campus


The University of Western Ontario is a campus of remarkable beauty and amenity, anchored by historic structures and located within the Thames River valley. Protecting and intensifying the campus core is a priority, however recent growth and new partnerships have led to the exploration of new sites and facilities to complement this historic centre. Urban Strategies has collaborated with the University for two decades, working to balance campus expansion with the enhancement of historic architecture and natural landscapes.

London, OntarioWESTERN UNIVERSITY

Our work includes:

• Campus Master Planning • Open Space Master Planning • Land Management Strategies • Site Selection and Development • Feasibility Analysis • Design Guidelines • Research/Business Park Planning • Campus Community Consultation • Ongoing Consultation

Campus Master Plan Update (2014)The Campus Master Plan Update was initiated to respond to strong growth pressure at the undergraduate, graduate, and research levels. The University’s historic core campus is bound by an arterial road and a river valley, requiring strategic thinking about where intensification and expansion should occur. Serving as a practical and visionary guide, the Plan focusses on three key areas: developing within the core and beyond,

improvements to the public realm, and longer term parking and movement strategies. A capacity analysis was used to identify growth sites and test development options. Investment in signature areas, such as historic Oxford Drive and Kent Drive, will be an integral component of a cohesive, high-quality public environment. The Plan prioritizes improving the campus experience for students, faculty, and visitors as the University continues to expand and evolve.

Westminster College Campus Master Plan (2012) Due to its prominent location, an architecturally significant building, tremendous natural features, and underutilized land, the Westminster College Campus was identified as a significant University asset. The Master Plan’s key programmatic driver was a planned family medicine building. The Plan helped determine the best location for the facility in anticipation of the University’s wider needs and plans for growth.


Campus Master Plan (1993)The key issue addressed by the Plan was whether the University should proceed with substantial expansion or prioritize infill development in its historic campus. Extensive consultation led to a focus on intensification and the revitalization of both built and natural landscapes. The approach sought to consolidate campus activities and improve pedestrian mobility. A street network and open space plan was identified for the expansion lands to accommodate longer-term growth.

University of Western Ontario & Fanshawe College Advanced Manufacturing Park (2011)The Master Plan and design guidelines for the AMP sought to create a successful research and manufacturing campus that incorporates high quality design, environmental sustainability, and innovation best practices. The first phase of development was the $25M WindEEE project, a technological breakthrough for the study of wind-related phenomena. Other core uses centred on advanced materials and structures, precision tooling and equipment, environment and energy, and information technologies. The Park accommodates applied manufacturing research and training centres, advanced manufacturing industries, and incubator facilities. The AMP catalyzes the 593-acre Innovation Park Employment Strategy that extends throughout south London.

top left: Oxford Drive

right: The Collider - Advanced Manufacturing Park (Image source: energy.uwo.ca/)

below: Campus Master Plan


At over 55,000 students, York University is one of North America’s largest universities. Continued enrollment growth and the urbanization of the surrounding context represent opportunities to transform the campus, enhance the student experience and improve the relationship with the city.

Toronto, Ontario

As a Vendor of Record for the York University Development Corporation, Urban Strategies was chosen to develop a Precinct Plan for the Southwest Precinct and the approvals for the first phase of a student housing development.

The Southwest Precinct Plan is a comprehensive framework to guide renewal and development. This

• Land Management Strategies• Site Selection and Development

Feasibility Analysis• Development Approvals

Our work includes:

will be achieved by integrating the University and its natural setting, the intensification and in-fill of existing development blocks, and by providing a mix of uses and services to create a complete community. Open spaces and pedestrain connections will be improved.

The Phase 1 development, named ‘The Quad’, will provide approximately 800 student beds in suite-style residences

Southwest Precinct Plan and Approvals (2012 – Present)

YORK UNIVERSITY

within a mixed-use urban setting. These improvements in quality of student life and experience will enhance the campus experience for students at York University. Urban Strategies is working with York University and the private housing developer to secure zoning, site plan and plan of subdivision approvals for The Quad.

Southeast corner of Pond Road and Sentinel road (image by ARK Inc.)


UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTAUniversity of Minnesota occupies a number of campuses within the Twin Cities Region. Although each campus is distinct, improving the quality of setting, facilities, and supporting a sense of community on each campus has been a common theme in their ongoing planning. Identifying opportunities for further development and overcoming the negative impacts of the private automobile have been important.

Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota

Our work includes:• Campus Master Planning• Open Space Master Planning• Land Management Strategies• Site Selection and Development

Feasibility Analysis• Design Guidelines• Research/ Business

Park Planning • Campus Community Consultation


Campus Master Plan (1994)The Master Plan prepared by Urban Strategies reconnects the two campuses and weaves them into the existing urban fabric as it guides the University’s growth and renewal over a 25 year time frame. We recommended opening up through streets to improve access, placing new housing units among classroom buildings, and reintegrating people, cars, and light rail at street level. While it introduces a more urban structure, the plan also calls for a stronger definition of the campus environment, particularly its edges, open spaces, and pathways.

The “Dinkydome” Block Study (2002)Urban Strategies was retained to examine the development potential of four urban blocks under mixed ownership at the northern edge of the campus. Working with University officials, other landowners, City officials, and representatives of local neighbourhood and business associations, we identified the opportunity to create an urban precinct with a mix of academic, administrative, and residential uses in mid-rise, street-oriented buildings.

UMORE Park Management Plan (2000)An important agricultural research station since 1948, the University of Minnesota’s 7,500-acre Rosemount Property also contains regionally-significant open space at the edge of the Twin Cities. Urban Strategies imagined the site as the University of Minnesota Outreach, Research, and Education Park, and developed an environmental framework, land use plan, and design principles to support the vision.

Taking an ecosystem approach, the management plan seeks to balance enhancements to core research facilities with restoration of the property’s woodland, prairie, and meadow landscapes. At the heart of the plan is the Research Village, the focal area for new research compounds, recreational activity, outreach programs, and heritage interpretation.

below: Campus Master Plan

below: Dinkydome Block Study

right: UMORE Park Management Plan

image: UMORE Park Management Plan


above: Campus Master Plan


UNIVERSITY OF ONTARIO INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGYFounded in 2002, UOIT is Ontario’s youngest university, but has grown rapidly to an enrollment of over 8,000 students. It has a projected enrollment of approximately 30,000 students in the coming decades. Urban Strategies has helped UOIT accomodate this growth on both the Downtown and North Oshawa campus locations.

Oshawa, OntarioOur work includes:• Campus Master Planning• Land Management Strategies• Site Selection and Development

Feasibility Analysis• Design Guidelines• Campus Community Consultation

North Campus Capacity Study (2012)

The University retained Urban Strategies to document and analyze UOIT’s existing physical spaces in order to better understand the ultimate capacity of the University, and provide a framework within which to explore potential future space needs.

Based on demographic, enrolment, and pedagogical trends and objectives, the Campus Capacity Study will help the University identify current and future deficits of space type and quantum; align projected needs with priority projects and capital improvements; and support discussions around the potential

Albert street

to increase enrolment and transition to a learner-centered educational model. The study provides a comprehensive snapshot of UOIT’s physical capacity and space requirements in the near and long term, and illustrates the physical implications of growth and the projected space needs.


Downtown UOIT Feasibility and Master Plan Study (2011)

UOIT currently has 1,500 students at its downtown Oshawa campus with a planned enrolment of up to 10,000. Urban Strategies undertook a feasibility and master plan study for the planned expansion of this downtown campus. We led a team exploring a wide array of considerations and disciplines in this study, including urban design and planning, student accommodation and housing assessment, facility needs assessment, servicing requirements, transportation and parking demand assessment, economic impact assessment, environmental sustainability, accessibility, and community and social impact assessment.

images: UOIT Campus Structure

a. Ravine Edge

C. Main Arrival and Access

e. The ‘heart’ of the UOIT North Location

f. The ‘extent’ of the UOIT North Location

b. City Edge Future Development Sites

d. Structuring Axis


QUE EN’S UNIVERSITYQueen’s University is a distinguished and long-established academic institution with a number of well-known professional programs. It occupies multiple campus locations within the historic city of Kingston, and this setting is a fundamental part of the Queen’s campus experience. As the University looks to its future, defining and leveraging the potential of lands beyond the Main Campus has become increasingly important to ensure capacity for growth and economic development.

Kingston, OntarioOur work includes:• Research/ Innovation

Park Planning• Campus Master Planning• Town-Gown Study• Land Management Strategies • Design Guidelines• Campus Community Consultation


Innovation Park Master Plan (2011)Queen’s Innovation Park focuses on attracting research and industry partners with interests and expertise in advanced materials technologies; environmental and alternative energy technologies; communications and medical technologies.

Building from innovation park precedent research, our approach included a working session with Queen’s Vice-Principals to define the long term future of the site. The plan also includes building programming and the identification of sustainability initiatives such as LEED Gold targets for all buildings, as well as geothermal energy initiatives and stormwater management strategies.

Campus Master Plan (2014)Urban Strategies prepared a campus master plan for Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario. Queen’s is one of Canada’s oldest universities - closely integrated within its host community on a number of separate campuses. Building on its remarkable legacy and history, Queen’s is looking to its future and changing the nature of teaching and learning spaces on campus to better support its academic mission and campus life.

Within this context of renewal and change, the directions for the campus master plan include the identification of places for growth beyond the Main Campus and the provision a of a development framework to shape this growth in a way that supports the historic character of the campuses, yet provides the right setting for contemporary academic development. Ensuring that campus locations are connected and provide an equivalent, but not identical, quality of experience was also a key objective.

The plan was developed with an extensive campus/public consultation program that included a number of social media tools and public consultation events. Over one hundred stakeholders were engaged within Queen’s, the surrounding neighbourhoods, and the City of Kingston.

Awards

Canadian Institute of Planners Awards of Excellence, Urban Design, 2015

BU

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10. 7m TRAVEL LANESLANDSCAPED LANDSCAPED LANDSCAPED3m

above: Arts Square

below: King Street Section

bottom: Fifth Field Company Lane


RAMAPO COLLEGERamapo College, in New Jersey, is a small liberal arts college with a significant on-campus residential offering. The College was built in the 1960’s on a former private estate at the base of the Catskills Mountains. A modern academic building was created that frames a quadrangle around the historic mansion, highlighting the natural setting and remarkable views to the Catskills. With a focus on small class sizes, the College provides an exceptional quality of experience and education.

Mahwah, New Jersey

Our work includes:• Campus Master Planning• Open Space Master Planning• Campus Community Consultation• Site Selection and Development

Feasibility Analysis


Urban Strategies created a campus master plan for the College that coordinates renewal of the academic building with facility needs, improves way-finding and circulation on campus, and identifies new campus landscapes as a focus for place-making and development. Key initiatives include the creation of a new Campus Center, a new Welcome Center and the expansion of the Library to include a Learning Commons. These initiatives have been coordinated with current projects and funding to promote their implementation.

Campus Master Plan (2013)

left: The Campus Plan design objectives achieves the following

1. Restore and Enhance the Campus Setting

2. Strengthen the ‘Heart’ of Campus

3. Expand and Connect the Centers of Campus Life

4. Enhance Connectivity and Movement Patterns

5. Renew Facilities and Plan for Future Development


CUYAHOGA COLLEGECuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) is an important institution whose functions extend well beyond the basics of education. As the provider of a variety of accessible and relevant learning opportunities, and a range of cultural, arts and sports events, Tri-C is embedded in city life and infrastructure. Urban Strategies prepared a college-wide Academic Programming and Facilities Master Plan for each of Tri-C’s three campuses. Each campus is a distinct community that requires carefully planned, higher-order systems. Our plan ensures college functions and facilities are appropriately integrated within local neighborhoods and effectively linked with the other Tri-C campus locations.

Cleveland, OhioAcademic Programming and Facilities Master Plan (2008)This Plan was undertaken by Tri-C to better align its mission and institutional goals with current and projected facility needs, educational programming, and anticipated funding levels. The plan is a forward-looking, practical, and flexible guide that demonstrates how future growth can be accommodated, while projecting a strong and coherent image reflecting the essential qualities of each of the three campuses. Urban design is an integral component of the overall plan, allowing each campus to maintain, enhance, or create outstanding places. The renewal and expansion of classrooms and teaching labs was also a pressing need, accommodating evolving pedagogy. Achieving state-of-the-art, sustainable design was also a fundamental objective of the plan.

Our work includes:• Campus Master Planning• Facility and Space Needs Planning• Open Space Master Planning• Design Guidelines.


UNIVERSITY OF GUELPHThe University of Guelph was established as an agricultural college nearly 140 years ago. Since then it has evolved into a comprehensive university and one of Canada’s largest research institutions. Despite the growth of the University and surrounding City of Guelph, the campus has retained its rural character and supports a closely-knit campus community. Many of the campus settings, including Johnston Green and the renowned Guelph Arboretum, recall this heritage while supporting modern research and teaching.

Guelph, Ontario

Our work includes:• Campus Master Planning• Open Space Master Planning• Land Management Strategies• Design Guidelines• Campus Community Consultation• Physical Audits


below: 20 Year Demonstration Plan

bottom: Long Term Demonstration Plan


Campus Master Plan (2013)Urban Strategies Inc. was retained by the University of Guelph to lead a Campus Master Plan Update that re-examines the University’s planning framework, considers directions of physical change to support the university’s far-reaching academic goals, and enhances the campus experience. Since its founding nearly 140 years ago, the campus has grown dramatically to support one of the largest research institutions in the province. The Campus Master Plan Update establishes a campus development framework to ensure that the university is prepared for the future.

The Master Plan Update sets directions for new growth, identifies a comprehensive open space network, improves pedestrian connectivity and circulation, and identifies key sites suitable for development opportunities. Key challenges and considerations included recognizing the distinct nature of the Ontario Veterinary College and the campus research park within an integrated whole, the physical and programmatic interface between the University and the City of Guelph, preservation of the historic campus buildings and landscapes, and the support and enhancement of a unique University identity across campus. To realize the goals and objectives of the plan, the University is guided by a “facilities renewal strategy” to address both the deferred maintenance and space utilization issues and a series of precinct plans to help identify and implement priority projects.

Awards

Ontario Professional Planners Institute Excellence in Planning Awards, Urban/Community Design, 2013

all images: Campus Master Plan


UNIVERSITY OF MANCHESTERThe University of Manchester is undergoing significant transformation, consolidating its numerous campus facilities onto one concentrated main campus and further enhancing an already globally competitive student environment. The former campus lands to the north (known as the ‘North Campus’) will have incredible potential to become a new city district that will marry the research initiatives and knowledge pool of the University with the culture and commercial activity of Manchester City Centre. A lush and generous campus landscape with a newly ‘daylighted’ river will anchor the district and provide a focal point for high-quality research, office and residential development. When realised, the North Campus will provide important public/private investment relationships, a substantial contribution to Manchester’s open space network and a newly revitalised link to the City Centre.

Manchester, United Kingdom

Our work includes:• Campus Master Planning• Open Space Master Planning• Site Selection and Development

Feasibility Analysis• Research/Business

Park Planning• Phasing and

Implementation Strategy• Global Research District

Precedent Review


UNIVERSITY OF MANCHESTER

Master Plan & Development Strategy (2013)Urban Strategies was retained to prepare a master plan and development strategy for a new research district in the North Campus area of the University of Manchester, adjacent to the City Centre.

The project establishes a framework to revitalize derelict campus lands into a new mixed-use discovery district with a focus on knowledge industry research-related activity. Thorough research and analysis of globally significant research and technology hubs was undertaken to provide insight on public/private investment opportunities, recognizing the City’s wider regeneration objectives.

The proposal establishes a new district anchored by research and university facilities and balanced with significant office and housing provision, within a green, environmentally remediated campus landscape.

all images: Master Plan & Development Strategy

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