The core of the campus as it could appear upon completion of the Campus Master Plan View Larger Image

Since it was established in 1964, Wright State University has followed a clearly defined academic course, evolving from a branch of Ohio State and Miami Universities to become a well respected, independent institution with an enrollment of approximately 17,000. This clarity of academic vision, however, has not been translated into physical form in the design and development of the campus. Development efforts have tended to be reactive in nature, making improvements on a case-by-case basis - program by program, building by building and parking lot by parking lot. Rarely has the campus been regarded as a whole. The result is a fragmented campus, a physical environment which presents an image to its users that is at odds with its academic mission.

In recognition of this disparity, the current administration seeks to build on the inherent strengths of the university campus and, more importantly, to delineate a coherent approach for future development. It is impossible to overemphasize the importance of a well-designed campus to the future of Wright State University. Not only will it reflect academic excellence, it will protect a huge capital investment, save money through functional efficiency and help ensure the legacy left to future generations. Studies also prove the more appealing the campus, the more successful recruitment and institutional reputation.

Master Plan Intentions

• Support the University's mission of excellence in teaching and research.
• Create a shared vision for the physical development of the University.
• Build upon existing campus strengths.
• Anticipate future campus needs.
• Avoid the waste and disruption resulting from piecemeal development.
• Aid fund-raising and recruiting.

Criteria

The following criteria were developed by the University to guide he planning process and to provide a yardstick by which its effectiveness could be measured:

• To create a distinguished campus setting.
• To clearly define the edges of campus through a distinctive and consistent treatment, especially along Colonel Glenn Highway.
• To assess and improve the appearance and function of existing campus spaces.
• To propose a comprehensive pedestrian circulation system with emphasis on safety and convenience, especially at major road crossings.
• To develop gateways that clearly lead pedestrians to the core of
• To design a strong outdoor connection between the Quad and the Student Union.
• To develop more efficient parking and vehicular circulation.
• To develop visual relief from parking lots.
• To provide a water detention strategy to halt major erosion in the Wright State Woods.
• To provide site development ideas for specific areas and to locate a new academic building.
• To identify potential locations for the future buildings.
• To increase intramural and unprogrammed recreation space near the campus core.
• To make existing and proposed residential areas integral and obvious parts of the campus.
• To recommend improvements to landscape maintenance and management practices.
• To facilitate the continued involvement of faculty, students and staff with the surrounding community.