Master Plan Process

In fall 2020 TU engaged design firm Ayers Saint Gross to lead a comprehensive planning process that culminated in an updated master plan. The plan was intentionally developed to advance institutional priorities identified in the 2020-2030 strategic plan and the Self-Study for Middle States reaccreditation. 

Goals

The master plan was developed to:

• support and advance current institutional priorities
• promote engagement, integration and outreach with uptown Towson
• map out next steps towards sustainability and carbon neutrality
• leverage past analysis to efficiently meet state requirements
• engage the Towson University community in the planning process

Considerations & Approach

In addition to aligning with TU's strategic priorities, the master plan integrates projects in TU's existing capital pipeline. The University Union Addition and Renovation, the Glen Towers and Glen Plaza Renovation, a future home for the College of Health Professions, and the Smith Hall Renovation are incorporated into the plan's proposed development projects. The plan also takes into account space needs assessments and recommendations from an independent study evaluating parking availability on TU’s campus.

Campus and community input was an important touchstone of master plan development. Dozens of listening sessions and open forums were held to understand diverse perspectives and incorporate feedback into the final plan.

Process

• Phase 1: Review & Analyze 
  Fall 2020
  Completed a full needs assessment; gathered information and input from campus tours, listening sessions and workshops.
• Phase 2: Draft Master Plan
  Spring & Summer 2021
  Developed and shared the draft plan for feedback.
• Phase 3: Presentation & Documentation
  Late Fall 2021 - Winter 2022
  Developed the final plan in detail; developed phasing for implementation; shared the plan internally and externally.

Steering Committee

The Vice President of Administration & Finance led a collaborative steering committee which guided the master plan's development. The committee included representation from every university division as well as insight from experts in TU’s Office of Facilities Planning and design firm Ayers Saint Gross.

Engagement Groups

Office of the President
Provost’s Office
Dean’s Council
Academic Senate
Staff Senate
Division of Strategic Partnerships & Applied Research
Student Affairs
Division of Inclusion & Institutional Equity
Division of University Advancement 
Division of University Marketing & Communications
Athletics
Auxiliary Services
Parking & Transportation Services
Parking Focus Group
Facilities
Utilities Focus Group
Office of Technology Services
Office of Public Safety
Office of Sustainability
Glen Arboretum Board
Chamber of Commerce and local business leaders
Community Groups
Government Officials, including Senator Chris West, Delegate Catherine Forbes, Councilman David Marks and Planning Director Stephen Lafferty
Open Forum Sessions for Campus Community