Park University - Master Plan Report Outcome Summary

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Master Plan Report Outcome Summary - May 2006

The Parkville Campus is an unbelievable place. The setting for the Campus on the bluffs of the Missouri River is unlike that to be found almost anywhere. The character of many of the existing campus buildings inspires students and visitors. The underground potential at the Parkville Campus is as unique and inspiring. The University is landrich, and located in a community of great character that has significant potential for growth.

Primary drivers for the recommended improvements at on the Parkville Campus are to accommodate the planned growth of the University, to transform the Campus into an attractive residential Campus, and to attract and support students with a competitive student life program.

A framework for the planned growth and transformation of the Campus is established by four principal projects. Together, they form the foundation for the balance of the recommended improvements.

Copley Quad will be the residential neighborhood at Park University. Locating students equally between the academic core, recreation and wellness infrastructure, and downtown Parkville appropriately places the energy of the Campus in the center of Campus.
Establishment of the Institute for Global Culture, Economics and Understanding is an important anchor and will make the entire Parkville Campus a regional, if not international destination.
Construction of the New North Loop Road will strengthen the bond between Campus and community by removing an unsafe and divisive automobile barrier that currently divides the campus. A stronger bond between the Parkville Campus and Parkville is clearly a articulated goal that was expressed by many in the master plan process.
The creation of Park Commons renews the vitality and rebrands the image of a unique underground asset for Park University. An important part of the University for many years, Park Commons will become a destination of choice for students and visitors.

The importance of flexibility and future planning cannot be overemphasized.
Whether for the Campus, the Endowment Lands, or cooperative planning for the future of the Missouri Highway 9 Corridor, long-term strategic thinking will strengthen the future of the University and the community.

Implementation of the Master Plan recommendations should be made with the same discipline and commitment as that which supported the Master Planning process. The Master Plan does not excuse any element of goal setting, concept planning, or programming that is part of a normal project design process. The Master Plan establishes a vision and a clear direction for the future. Each project must do the same at the project-specific scale.

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