SCUP Excellence in Planning for a District or Campus Component
Merit Award

Indiana University for Indiana University Bloomington Campus Master Plan with SmithGroupJJR

Rendering by Jim Anderson

Building upon the rich tradition of picturesque landscape design and environmental awareness, the Indiana University Bloomington master plan defines a 20-year growth trajectory that prioritizes environmental stewardship and sustainable land planning principles.

Objectives were to redefine land planning princi­ples, preserve and reinvigorate the historic campus core, leverage Indiana University’s unique natural features, and improve the stormwater condition.

A rigorous examination and validation of the university’s core values, historic precedent and natural resources found that valued campus characteristics had been unintentionally undermined and diluted by development. Priorities were realigned and emphasis was shifted to strategies that prioritize preservation, concentration and renewal.

The jury said “ . . . plan has far-reaching implica­tions . . . celebrating sustainability and not expansion is admirable . . . preserving historic campus core generates campus sustainability  . . .”

Over the years, development had reduced the ability to naturally accommodate stormwater events. The university began a restoration program to priori­tize natural stormwater management techniques, combined with careful placement and configuration of retention basins, wetlands, bioswales and rain gar­dens. Re-embracing the Jordan River as an integral element of the campus re-established it as a vital component of the campus’s strong natural identity and character.

The plan also interlaced the campus’s historic land planning principles within less densely developed areas necessitating a more traditional architectural and open-space planning sensibility. It prioritized putting mixed-use functions back into the historic core.

The proposed increased density constricts the built environment and emphasizes quality open spaces and pedestrian circulation corridors. To ensure that increased density is balanced with adequate open space and circulation, the university is converting vehicular corridors and surface parking lots to pedes­trian zones and green spaces.

“The plan rises to address the complexity of pre­sent and future challenges of environmental concerns, attention to sustainability, the need for enhanced infrastructure and mobility, and the creation of vibrant, collaborative living learning environments.  It is a physical vision for the future and a plan to fire the imagination,” says Thomas A. Morrison, vice president for capital planning and facilities.

Project Team: Indiana University with SmithGroupJJR; also Paulien & Associates, Inc.; Gorove/Slade Associates, Inc.; Applied Engineering, Inc.; Live Work Learn Play