Campus Landscape Master Plan for University of Nebraska-Kearney Facilities Management and Planning
August 2013
Olsson Associates 5Design
Flatwater Art Foundation HydroSystems KDI, Inc.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
This document is a flexible tool, which presents a vision, framework, principles, and guidelines for the development of an attractive, consistent, identifiable, and sustainable campus landscape at UNK. It is important to note that specific buildings/physical designs have not been determined. Rather, these designs are conceptual in nature, depicting possible improvements that will fulfill the vision, follow the framework initiatives, and create the desired campus identity. Changes in priorities, budgets, programming, and/or physical con- straints will almost certainly occur over time. However, this plan’s vision, principals, framework, and guidelines will provide a founda- tion and cohesive approach to future campus development initiatives.
Executive Summary
1 - 4
Places
4 - 14
Landscape Design Guidelines A. Site Design B. Edges and Gateways C. Campus Spaces
15 15
16 - 17 17 - 18 18 - 19 19 - 20 20 - 22 22 22 - 24 25 25 - 26 26 - 27 27 28 - 32
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS
D. Public Art E. Pathways F. Lawns, Meadows, and Planting G. Landscape Maintenance H. Sustainability and Storm Water Management I Accessibility J. Signs and Wayfinding K. Site Furnishings L. Public Safety and Lighting M. Irrigation
Charlie Bicak
Sr. Vice Chancellor Academic/Student Affairs
Tony Earls
Director of Residence Life & Associate Dean of Student Affairs
Lee McQueen Neal Schnoor Alan D. Wedige
Director of Facilities Management
Sr. Advisor to Chancellor for Executive Affairs
Campus Architect
Implementation & Budget
32 - 33
Proposed - Campus Landscape Master Plan
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
Project Vision This Campus Landscape Master Plan provides a road map for the university to de- velop a strong ‘sense of place’ that students, faculty, and staff identify with, while projecting a clear and uniquely vibrant image of the institution. The plan organizes the campus to provide a green, protected and contiguous campus core surrounded by academic buildings with roads and parking moved to the perimeter of the site. It provides for varied modes of transportation while creating an environment where the pedestrian is privileged, the built environment is accentuated, public art is inte- grated, infrastructure is respected, and the landscape is rich, varied, and maintain- able, meeting the University’s goals for energy use and sustainability. Design Principles • Build on the character of the historic campus and reinforce those areas with a stronger focus, better connections, and more outdoor opportunities.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The University of Nebraska at Kearney’s original success as a small state teacher’s college with a mission to train the future educators of this mostly rural, Great Plains state has led to its current status as a popular and high quality institution providing critical educational training and opportunities to people from all over the world. The campus’ natural setting in the Platte River Valley, with its thriving riparian habitats that annually attract an abundance of waterfowl and its historic location at the convergence of famous trade and migration routes, distinguishes Kearney as a unique and desirable destination. The sense of protection, comfort, and humanity provided by the cultural landscape of UNK and the City of Kearney is also powerfully attractive amidst the seemingly endless, yet inspiringly beauti- ful, plains of surrounding prairie. This landscape master plan seeks to capitalize on these inherent environmental and cultural attributes and to develop the UNK campus landscape to capture the essence of its purpose, history, and surroundings. Human Experience A comprehensive campus landscape planning process has been undertaken to uncover the issues, identify the opportunities, and to recommend changes that will improve the experiences of all who come to UNK. A visitor’s first impression, a student’s lasting memories, a professor’s understanding, a neighbor’s feeling, an employee’s personal view; these are the experiences that will be influenced by this plan. The purpose of the campus landscape master plan is to make the University’s physical presence more welcoming, distinguished, comfortable, attractive, func- tional, and sustainable and to organize the use of campus land over time so that the principles of the master plan are fulfilled. The Challenge The University of Nebraska at Kearney is a special place with a noble mission, distinctive character, rich history, and comfortable setting. UNK’s physical and cultural resource assets include its historic buildings, arboretum of mature trees, inviting green spaces, complementary surroundings, and ample room to grow. The campus is composed of a series of distinct ‘places’, the Northeast Village, 26th Street Mall, Founders Quadrangle, and West Park are among them. These places are important to the University’s character. Their diversity in both use and ap- pearance is an asset, the goal is to improve each, create more, and to link them all through a comprehensive system of green spaces and pathways that will be embraced by academic, administrative, and residential buildings and unified with a consistent approach to landscape design. Issues with the current campus include the east/west split created by the Cushing Coliseum and the Tail Race Canal, the disconnection between quadrangles and green spaces, roads and parking that dominate portions of the campus core, the isolation of the west end of campus, green spaces that do not accommodate campus activities, and a preponderance of vehicular and pedestrian conflicts. Students and faculty use the campus landscape to access building and parking destinations and, to a lesser extent, as an outdoor learning and social environment. This plan proposes changes to provide more op- portunities for outdoor learning and social interaction, informal recreation, public events, and university ceremonies. Implementation of this plan will expand the use of the campus by students, faculty, and the community by its creation of more useable outdoor places and spaces. The plan’s intent is to preserve and enhance UNK’s assets and to create a cohesive network of spaces that are united by a land- scape composed of consistent features and attributes.
• Develop a new memorable arrival experience and create a consistent and attrac - tive image statement about the campus.
Founder’s Quadrangle
• Signature, interconnected green spaces should form the heart of the campus and be useable destinations. Roads and parking should be moved to the perimeter of campus, parking garages should be added to achieve plan principles.
• Make walking the preferred mode of travel on campus, privilege pedestrians over motorists. Reduce pedestrian and vehicular conflicts. Make the campus bicycle- friendly.
• Improve the quality of the landscape with more useable spaces, a clear hierarchy of pedestrian routes, bicycle trails and facilities, and upgraded planting design and maintenance.
• Make building entrance spaces into informal destinations for outdoor interaction.
• Define the campus edge with uniquely UNK landscape, gateways, and multi- modal accommodations.
Frank House
• Accent the key views within campus to develop identification and character.
• Develop a public art program that celebrates Nebraska Art and is an extension of the Museum Of Nebraska Art (MONA.)
• Employ sustainability goals with new development and incorporate environmen - tally sustainable materials and strategies.
• Enhance campus-wide accessibility for the disabled.
• Improve the perception of campus safety.
• Improve the landscape details to provide a consistent and high quality image.
Thomas Hall
1
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
FRAMEWORK PLAN
The Framework Plan conveys the project vision and functions as the “backbone” of the landscape master plan. It provides the physical structure upon which all im- provements are to be built and it is designed to guide campus landscape changes over time. The Framework illustrates physical solutions to the most significant issues and incorporates a holistic set of planning principles that will guide future decision-making. The proposed Landscape Framework supports a programmatic direction for cam- pus facility planning. It makes recommendations that take into account the known and currently recommended future campus facility changes as a means of realisti- cally filling out the Vision for the Landscape Master Plan.
2
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
Discovering UNK Two new campus gateways are planned to improve the visitor’s first impression of UNK. The East Gateway is designed as a sequence of strong landscape image and character experiences along Ninth Avenue from Route 30 to Martin Hall. The physical surroundings are planned to convey the distinguished style and character of the institution while displaying the purposeful environmental design that makes pedestrian comfort and safety a priority. A closely related series of experiences is planned for the West Gateway at Uni- versity Drive’s intersection with Route 30. Strengthening Connections Connecting existing spaces, quadrangles, and corridors is the first step to creating a contiguous green campus core. As new spaces are created, their success will depend upon straightforward connections to the rest of the campus. Public art, architectural elements, and dramatic spaces will form landmarks and focal points that strengthen the links, while adding interest, activity, and continuity to the campus landscape. A Design Palette To guide the character of future site design and create a more cohesive, attractive, and maintainable campus identity, a design pal- ette has been prepared. It includes a set of standards for paving, furnishings, monuments, and plantings. The palette includes details that currently function well such as concrete walkways while providing new standards for special items like UNK identification walls, entry columns, permeable pavement, and moveable café furniture. A single detail is recommended for each furnishing and for consistency, over time all other types will be eliminated. A UNK planting palette has also been established, it embraces the initia- tive to plant more native and adaptable trees, shrubs, perennials, and grasses. Specially designed seed mixes are recommended for native grass and wildflower plantings and UNL’s Water Saver Sod is specified for turf areas. Promoting Sustainable Design and Maintenance By following the design and maintenance recommendations of this plan, the university will reduce energy use, waste, storm wa- ter runoff, and the use of fertilizer and irrigation water. The most significant change will be made if people choose to drive motor vehicles less often. The plan encourages this change of habit in several ways. By moving parking to the perimeter it is less likely that people may choose to drive to class. By adding convenient and safe bicycle paths and parking areas, it will become easier and more enjoyable to use a bicycle to move around campus. Shuttle busses and stops along University Drive will also have a significant impact. Continuing and expanding the recycling program, composting more landscape waste, reducing stormwater runoff, changing lighting to an LED source, and generating more clean energy are all priorities that will help UNK reach its sustainability goals. Campus-wide Accessibility Campus-wide access for people with disabilities is a goal. Enhancing pedestrian crossings at vehicular ways with signs, changes in pavement color and texture, detectable warning ramps, and medians will play an important role in this effort. Adding easy to read signs for wayfinding, identity and information that contain QR codes will provide a better understanding of the campus while dis- seminating information about the campus places, history, and art. An updated accessibility map on the campus website will make this important information more easily available. Promoting Public Art Art in the landscape is a theme of this plan. Artwork carefully selected, and properly placed will enrich everyone’s experience, enhance the visual environment, and add a new dimension to the landscape. Art can be a place-maker, creating a strong physical identity for its surroundings. Future art locations are recommended and guidelines for artwork selection, placement, and associated site design are presented. The proposed artwork selection and siting process will result in a hierarchy of spatial importance defined by artworks that will impart a more meaningful, and resonant character to each location. Recognizing Campus Safety Heightened campus security is a goal of this plan. Safety can be improved by moving police and parking services to a more central location inside the proposed parking garage that is planned just north of “University Green”. Emergency response times and access to the station will be improved. In addition, a campus lighting study is recommended to evaluate the current lighting levels and to determine the locations that are not well illuminated, so that additional lighting can be planned. Medium height plantings that block a clear view to the landscape beyond are also not recommended along walkways or adjacent to remote parking lots.
East Gateway Concept
UPenn
Campus Security
26th Street Mall
Copeland Hall Access Ramp
College of Education Parking Lot
3
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
Implementing the Plan The UNK administration and Office of Facilities Management and Planning will use this master plan to guide campus landscape improvements for a significant period into the future. Some of the project recommendations such as the recon- struction of the central fountain and its plaza and the proposed green spaces and connections in the Northeast Village, can be started as soon as funding is identi- fied. These initial projects will have a significant impact and generate excitement for achieving the plan’s vision. Many of the other proposed projects require signifi- cant facilities changes to facilitate the opportunity such as: the addition of parking garages, the removal of one or more buildings, the realignment of a road, or the construction of a new building. This plan identifies and prioritizes both the initial and long term projects, with budget estimates for each. To advance the proposed projects, funding must first be identified and then design contracts let for the de- velopment of master plan concepts into construction documents.
PLACES This section describes each of the campus places that will be created, restored, or modified as part of this landscape master plan. Each of the concepts detailed in this section builds upon the established qualities and opportunities of the UNK campus, its context, and the existing landscape to enhance the campus and ensure the cre- ation of a sense of place that is unique to UNK.
The places described in this section are:
• Northeast Village (page 5) • East Gateway (page 6) • 26th Street Mall (page 7) • Founders Quadrangle and Coliseum Way (page 8) • Fine Arts Garden (page 9) • Tail Race (page 10) • University Green (page 11) • West Park (page 12) • Health Science Education Complex & West Gateway (page 13)
Northeast Village
Places - Site Diagram
4
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
Northeast Village
The concept for the Northeast Village provides a convenient, safe, and green pedestrian linkage between the Centennial Tow- ers, Martin Hall, Antelope Hall, Nester Hall North, Nester Hall South and the Nebraskan Student Union, and between those buildings and Founder’s Quadrangle. Currently roads, cars, and parking lots dominate the area north of Martin Hall and only a worn social trail links Martin Hall with Founders Quadrangle. The current residential village is embedded in a landscape that privileges the driver over the pedestrian and possesses little sense of campus continuity. The Northeast Village is the home to over 25% of the University’s student population. The Nebraskan Student Union sits at its heart serving the critical student life functions of meeting place, event center, dining destination and campus center. With Martin Hall becoming the new visitor’s center, the campus’ front door will also open into the NE Village. In addition the proposed removal of Conrad Hall and the East Heating Plant open the way for adding much needed useable outdoor space in this critical location. Also under study is the potential for a multi-level parking structure on the east side of the Nebraskan that will serve students, faculty, staff, and visitors at this important civic location. Two design options are proposed for making these changes, the first works with existing parking and vehicular circulation and the second introduces a new parking garage. Both provide a wide tree-lined walk connecting the Centennial Towers with the Student Union but the linkage is much more substantial and pedestrian-friendly in the parking garage option. In addition, both options provide an expanded “Nebraskan Green” utilizing the space vacated by the removal of Conrad Hall to expand the existing green space south of the union. The new green provides ample room for a game of Frisbee and group gatherings for outdoor learning while also adding a bio- retention area at its low point to better manage storm water and prevent continued flooding of the student union. A wide tree- lined walkway is also proposed to extend from Martin Hall south to Founders Quadrangle, formalizing the existing social trail along the alignment of existing underground utilities.
Existing - Northeast Village
2
1
View Facing West from Martin Hall
1
2
Proposed - Northeast Village with Parking Garage
Proposed - Without Parking Garage
View Facing South from Centennial Towers
5
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
East Gateway
Defined at its eastern edge by Ninth Avenue, UNK is introduced to the westbound visitor by 25th Street’s UNK light pole ban- ners and the long distance view of the campus bell tower framed by trees and the memorial columns. At Ninth Avenue, the approaching motorist is confronted with choices that clearly lead around the campus but not necessarily into it. This decision point and the following journey to the proposed “front door” of campus at Martin Hall will complete the “Eastern Gateway” experience. The series of spaces along this route will create the public’s first impression of UNK. For this reason, a clear and consistent presentation of the university landscape is proposed. Using signature gateway columns at the initial turn and a smaller version of the same at each intersection while enhancing the streetscape with red brick paving, shade trees, ornamen- tal planting, decorative lighting, and generous accommodations for pedestrians will provide a welcoming threshold to guide the visitor into the campus. The sense of arrival will be distinct as one passes through a carefully designed landscape that is uniquely the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Two transportation-planning options have been developed for the gateway intersection, the ‘Roundabout’ and the ‘T’. Each will create a sense of arrival by deliberately changing the motorist’s visual orientation and providing a university “threshold” at the entrance to Ninth Avenue. The university will work with the City of Kearney and the Nebraska Department of Roads (NDOR), to resolve the transportation planning decisions and select the most suitable alternative.
East Gateway - Roundabout Alternative
1
East Gateway - “T” Intersection Alternative
Existing - East Gateway
Proposed - East Gateway (Roundabout Alternative)
6
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
26th Street Mall
The 26th Street Mall is one of the more successful spaces on campus. It is an important circulation and social space as well as home to orientation week events, a key ceremonial function. Students, faculty, and staff agree that the UNK Fountain Plaza in the center of the 26th Street Mall is the most iconic space on campus. East and west, the mall begins at Ninth Avenue and will be extended west to its connection with University Drive. North and south the mall includes improvements from the fountain plaza north to the Nebraskan and south to the Calvin T. Ryan Library. Roads and parking are removed from the west portion to complete this prominent pedestrian concourse. Parking spaces are to be replaced in the proposed Cope Stadium parking garage. The east end of the mall on Ninth Avenue, is developed as a pedestrian-only entrance to the campus by replacing the curb cut with a vertical “roll curb”, adding UNK columns that narrow the approach, creating a brick-paved entry plaza, and adding furnishings and bicycle racks. Ornamental plantings and drains are removed from the linear green spaces between walks and the existing recessed grading and drainage are amended to slightly raise the center above adjacent walks and create a useable space for students to gather and enjoy. Small trees are removed from the mall’s edges and central green and replaced by regularly spaced canopy trees that line the walks providing a linear formality and civic scale. The fountain basin is to be replaced by a large, signature sculptural centerpiece that will provide an all season visual focal point from the four axial direc- tions. The water feature will be rebuilt to enhance the sculptural element and allow all season access throughout the plaza. Informal seating opportunities will surround the fountain. Once the roads and parking are removed to the west of the plaza, the mall will be extended all the way to a new central entryway campus arrival drop off located on the north side of the Well- ness Center. The arrival point will be enhanced with wide walkways, a large plaza, and rich plantings to signify it as a portal to the campus’ green, pedestrian-oriented core.
Existing - 26th Street Mall
1
26th Street Mall Facing West
2
2
Central Entryway Facing East
Proposed - 26th Street Mall
7
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
Founders Quadrangle and Coliseum Way
The most formal space on campus and the original center of academic activity, Founders Quadrangle is the green core of the historic east campus. The iconic carillon bell tower dominates the landscape with the Calvin T. Ryan Library, Bruner Hall, Founders Hall, and stately Copeland Hall forming the quadrangle’s enclosure. The space is primarily used as a pass-through rather than a meeting point and there is an abundance of tree planting that serves to reduce the open space rather than frame it. Improvements proposed for this location are intended to make the space more open and versatile, add a hierarchy to the pathway system and make it useable by bicycles, redesign the small space around the bell tower as it interferes with the larger landscape gesture, and create appealing gathering spaces at building entries. Coliseum Way is the location of the former narrow walkway that connected the back of Ryan Library with Cushing Coliseum. The new walk is much wider, tree-lined, and immersed in a linear green space that includes a bio-retention rain garden on the north side of the Fine Arts building. The garden will better manage storm water runoff and create an ecological amenity. Parking to the north of the walk has been reduced to accommodate these changes but all spaces that will be removed are to be replaced in a parking garage proposed in the existing parking lot to the west of Cope Stadium. All existing service access in this area is maintained but the pedestrian walkway and plantings are dominant with curb cuts and service drives secondary to this corridor that will serve everyone on campus.
Existing - Founders Quadrangle
Founders Quadrangle
Proposed - Founders Quadrangle
Bell Tower Plaza
8
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
Fine Arts Garden
The Fine Arts building anchors a potentially charming green space full of mature trees with a free form pathway system, a sunken performance amphitheater, a pair of memorial statues, and significant plantings of ornamental shrubs, grasses, and flowering perennials. The Ryan Library and Thomas Hall further enclose the space and pathways through the garden link Founders Quadrangle to the east with Coliseum Way to the west. The Fine Arts Garden concept seeks to capitalize on the loca- tion’s horticultural attributes while infusing it with a fine arts theme. Pathways will be improved to create a hierarchy of widths and a more straightforward orientation. The fine arts theme will be embraced by creating a setting for moveable art exhibits that will be installed by visiting art professors or selected Nebraska artists. The existing memorial statues and their settings will be evaluated within the proposed theme and relocation or site improvements to make them an integral part of the larger setting will be proposed. Planting beds will be reconsidered with the larger civic space in mind and ornamental plantings will be rearranged and enhanced to provide all season interest, reduce maintenance, and to increase variety and the use of native species. The amphitheater will be made more festive and welcoming with the addition of a fabric tension structure, regular programming of events, and material changes that add richness and comfort to the existing grey concrete. Furnishings will also be added to provide multiple opportunities for informal gathering at the building entrances and throughout the garden.
Existing - Fine Arts Garden
Fine Arts Garden
1
1
Amphitheater with Proposed fabric tension structure
Proposed - Fine Arts Garden
9
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
Tail Race
The Kearney canal’s Tail Race section splits the campus in two, but it is also the fulcrum upon which each half balances. The goal is to celebrate the waterway as a unique amenity while taking full advantage of the uniquely picturesque view of the spillway and its historic brick turret. Physical access to the canal is also critical to its integration into the UNK experience. This is provided by a new ramping pathway on the west side of the canal that leads from the ‘Main Street” bridge, passing under the University Drive bridge, to the spillway bridge at the base of the water feature. Additional access is provided by a set of ‘sitting stairs’ that lead down into the ravine from a proposed new academic building to the west. The ‘Main Street’ bridge is enhanced as a destination in itself by widening and adding a curving edge that alters the user’s orientation encouraging stopping to enjoy this unique environment by moving out of primary path of travel. Moveable tables and chairs also add life to the bridge and provide a place for people watching, enjoying a snack, or having a quiet conversation. The re-alignment of University Drive straightens the road at the bridge location and a new roadway bridge is flanked on its south side by a versatile pedestrian bridge that sports a curving shape to flow into the walkways and crossings at each end while providing a safe and dramatic way to cross this landscape feature. A new and larger circular plaza is planned for the west end of the Main Street bridge and the current multi-use trail on the west side of the canal is widened to easily accommodate pedestrian and bicycle traffic. Ac- cessibility improvements are also vital to the success of the tailrace crossing. Adding brick paving in Fifteenth Avenue to des- ignate cross walks, using contrasting colors for truncated dome warning strips, and adding pedestrian crossing signs will make a significant improvement. A bus pullout area has also been added to the east side of 15th Avenue for much needed visiting team bus parking.
1
Tail Race Spillway
1
Tail Race Visualization
Existing - Tail Race
Proposed - Tail Race
10
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
University Green
Today, an enormous concrete parking lot and a single academic building dominate the physical center of the UNK campus. It is a landscape built for the automobile possibly better resembling a suburban shopping destination than a university. The goal here is to capitalize on the College of Education building’s presence and importance to the mission of UNK and to build a new University Green quadrangle that becomes part of the connected green core of the campus landscape. Distinguished academic buildings will enclose the green with strong walkway connections to the Coliseum, 26th St. Mall, and the West campus. The green is designed for large-scale ceremonies as well as outdoor learning, games, and public gathering. It is enhanced with public art, attractive building entrance plazas, and a central pergola visible from Route 30. It is edged by wide walkways lined with shade trees complemented with furniture inviting students to slow down and take advantage of the setting for rest, study, and quiet conversation.
Existing - University Green Site
1
University Green from the Main Street Bridge
1
3
2
3
2
University Green Facing East
Proposed - University Green Site
University Green Facing West
11
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
West Park
West Park is where the formality of the university landscape breaks down and gives way to the historic park setting of the former Kearney hospital and the majestic Frank House Museum. Mature trees, expansive lawns, low density, historic build- ings, and long views compose a romantic landscape unique to this campus. It is a place to relax, enjoy the setting, play games, and gather with colleagues. The proposed changes are subtle, working to maximize West Park’s assets while expanding the landscape’s capabilities. Two new buildings are added in underused corner segments. An oval walkway ties the space and the buildings together and a new concourse extends to the west to form the organizing central space of the proposed Health Sci- ence Education Complex. The landscape is slightly modified to subtly bring in more native trees and shrubs and to introduce native prairie grasses and wildflowers in the un-walked edges. The historic Frank House is embedded in an attractive cultural landscape. While it is not entirely historic, it is composed of important elements to be preserved including the evergreen wind- break, mature trees and gracious lawn, kitchen garden, and fruit tree orchard. Some elements such as the fishpond may not be consistent with this landscape and should be reconsidered.
Existing - West Park
1
West Park Facing South
1
2
2
West Park Facing East
Proposed - West Park
12
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
Health Science Education Complex and West Gateway
The proposed addition of a new Health Science Education Complex, (HSEC) to the west end of the main campus will have a significant impact on the landscape and the way the campus is used. In addition, the proposed “South Campus” village to be located across route 30 immediately to the south, will create an all new residential, recreation, and retail destination that will be physically linked to the HSEC. One of the goals of the Landscape Framework Plan is to incorporate the HSEC into the West Park and for its buildings to have a strong eastward orientation that will embrace that space so that the structures will become the western “bookends” of the main campus. To meet the intent of the master plan, the HSEC and the new Route 30 campus gateway intersection will become an integral part of the main campus. To achieve this goal, the West Park landscape is pulled west across the proposed new routing of University Drive and up to the east facing facades of the HSEC buildings that com- plete the extension of West Park. This orientation, combined with a strong pedestrian linkage, joins the HSEC facility with the West Park as well as the University Green and east campus beyond. Lawns and planting for the west end of campus including the HSEC site are intended to reduce the dominance of formal mown turf and to incorporate significant areas of prairie grass and wildflower plantings as well as native trees and shrubs. This ap- proach will tie the site into the natural surroundings to the north and complete the proposed east-west landscape gradient in the main campus from traditional to more indigenous in character. The West Gateway presents a grand image for the university; it creates a gracious arrival experience, and unifies the new south campus with the main. The HSEC south building anchors the key northwest corner; a new school of business building is worked into the mature tree landscape to the northeast and two new south campus mixed-use buildings flank the southern extension of University Drive. UNK columns of heroic size are stationed at all corners and UNK walls flank the columns to the north. Special paving, lighting, and planting accent the intersection square creating a place that welcomes the pedestrian and celebrates the university character and lifestyle. Medians have been widened and planted and street trees have been extended to the ends of campus on both sides of the Route 30. Together, they serve to scale down the highway, slowing traffic and creat- ing a pedestrian refuge out of not only the median but also the entire UNK gateway intersection. The southwest corner of the HSEC site is enhanced with a new set of curving stone UNK identity walls. Backed by evergreen trees and illuminated at night, they demarcate the southwest corner of the main campus and introduce the University to passers by.
Existing - Health Science Education Complex Site
1
1
West Gateway Facing East
Proposed - Health Science Education Complex Site
13
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
Campus Landscape Master Plan
The Campus Landscape Master Plan shown is an illustration of what the UNK campus could look like in 20 years. It is a plan for the implementation of the Principles, Framework Plan initiatives, and place-making recommendations of this report. This illustrative plan is to be used as a guide for future development decisions and is meant to be flexible. The finished design for each project will not necessarily match the precise layout shown but it is anticipated that each project’s design will embrace the Master Plan Principles, Framework, characteristics of Place, and Guidelines while being executed in the spirit of this plan.
14
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
Landscape Design Guidelines
a. Select a scale for the space and design elements that is appropriate to the pro- posed use and desired experience. For instance, the existing seating area at the corner of 19th Avenue and Route 30 appears to be a small and intimate setting but is located in a busy public place. To ensure success, intimate settings require quiet and a measure of visual privacy. Since the sitting area at this corner has neither of these qualities, the design is not successful.
c. Follow the design guidelines for pathways; lawns, meadows, and planting; ir- rigation; site furnishings; and lighting.
A. Site Design (page 15) B. Edges and Gateways
(pages 16-17)
C. Campus Spaces
(pages 17-18)
D. Public Art E. Pathways
(pages 18-19)
(pages 19-20) F. Lawns, Meadows, and Planting
(pages 20-22)
G. Landscape Maintenance (page 22) H. Sustainability and Storm Water Management
(page 22 - 24)
I. Accessibility (pages 25) J. Signs and Wayfinding
(page 25 - 26)
K. Site Furnishings
(page 26 - 27)
L. Public Safety and Lighting
(page 27)
M. Irrigation
(pages 28 - 32)
Functional Pathway Intersection Design
Problematic Pathway Intersection Design
Guidelines for site improvements have been prepared to provide clear direction to designers of future projects and for their use in better understanding the vision, framework, and details of the Landscape Master Plan. Future planners, architects, engineers, and landscape architects will be required to consult these guidelines and utilize them in their designs. They provide standards for design elements that will ensure continuity in the character and image of the UNK landscape while promoting sustainable maintenance. All new campus site design projects are required to follow the Landscape Design Guidelines as part of the review and approval process outlined herein. These Guidelines are not specifications, they are intended to guide the preparation of project specifications providing project designers with the critical materials, approach, and design intent that will fulfill the vision of this plan. A. Site Design The objective for site design on the UNK campus is to develop animated living and activity spaces that support the learning environment. This plan presents a flexible framework allowing for a variety of spaces that will provide for a wide range of uses, from intimate relaxation to the assembly of large groups for Univer- sity ceremonies. Significant changes are proposed to the campus landscape with the intent of creating a contiguous green campus core that displays a consistent landscape identity and embraces a sustainable approach to design and mainte- nance. To achieve this end, every space within each project should be designed as part of its “place” on campus, whether it is the “Northeast Village”, ”West Park” or another distinct location. The design intent should be to complement the character and uses that are most appropriate to that place.
d. Grading design for each space should smoothly flow and fit within the larger context of the surrounding landscape. Proposed grading should be civic in scale, small isolated berms and depressions should be avoided. Grading and drainage should follow the guidelines for storm water management.
Existing Northeast Corner - 19th Ave. and Route 30
b. Integrate the design of each space and landscape element, into the larger surroundings. Unless the element is truly a work of art, avoid the creation of an elaborate freestanding statement. The information kiosk on Ninth Avenue is an example of too much emphasis on a single element. A well-made sign, designed as part of the University’s sign design standards, would serve the same purpose and easily fit into the context of the surrounding landscape.
Existing Center of 26th Street Mall
e. A select UNK committee, or UNK Design Review Board will review all site de- signs for compliance with this plan. Reviews will be scheduled at the completion of the Schematic Design and Design Development phases. The review commit- tee or board should consist of the Campus Architect and select members of UNK administration and staff that have experience in campus site design. In addition, a Landscape Architect staff member or consultant should also be a member of the committee.
Because Landscape Architects are trained to deal with all of the specific require- ments of campus site design, it is recommended that a Landscape Architect have a primary role in all projects. Site designers for campus improvements should embrace the following principles:
Information Kiosk on 9th Ave.
15
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
Lincoln Highway / Route 30 The southern edge of UNK abuts the Lincoln Highway, also known as Route 30, which is owned and maintained by the NDOR. Over most of its length, the road is a wide and straight section of five-lane highway with several small, paved medians and only two pedestrian crossings. At its eastern end, the road curves around the southeast corner of campus creating an awkward ge- ometry for the campus entrance intersection at Ninth Avenue. Two roadway reconfiguration alternatives were prepared as part of this study. The University will work with the City of Kearney and the NDOR to select an alternative and resolve the road’s layout. Both alternatives include a new gateway to the University at the Ninth Avenue connection with Route 30 that includes well-marked pedestrian crossings, gateway columns, special pavement at the vehicular threshold to Ninth Avenue, a planted median, street trees, and clear views of the Memorial Columns and the Ninth Avenue campus edge. The 5,000 foot long edge of Route 30 is bordered by a 5-foot wide sidewalk that is fully exposed to the westbound traffic lane as well as wind, blowing snow and rain, and slush thrown by snow plows. Commercial land uses and parking lots line much of the south side of the highway providing a bleak view from campus. Goals for this highly visible campus edge are multi-faceted. Changing the appearance and use of the area so that it becomes an obvious and attractive southern edge of the campus rather than a northern extension of the highway is the primary goal. To promote pedestrian and bicycle connectivity, a wide, multi- use trail that is set back from the roadway and lined by a double row of street trees, is proposed over its entire length. Each connecting road intersection is enhanced with special pedestrian and bicycle crossings, UNK columns, and street trees. The western end of this edge of campus will become an entirely new setting with the addition of a campus gateway intersection where the relocated University Drive meets Route 30. Special pavement for the intersection and corners, as well as gateway columns, UNK signs, street trees, planted medians, and wide connecting walks and trails will extend an urban, pedestrian- oriented atmosphere across the highway. A large curving stonewall with an integral UNK sign is proposed for the southwest corner of campus. It will complete the streetscape and University identity improvements on the southern edge of campus. Fur- ther proposed enhancements to the roadway to be considered by NDOR include planted medians, safer crosswalks with brick paving, and street trees.
B. Edges and Gateways Campus edges and gateways define the institution from the outside; they present an image to the community and visitor that will form a lasting impression. This plan proposes improvements to campus edges that will embrace UNK’s purposeful com- mitment to providing a safe and comfortable place for people to live and learn. UNK’s campus has three distinct edges; they are formed by Ninth Avenue to the east, Route 30 to the south, and University Drive and the Kearney Canal to the north. The proposed design approach is slightly different for each edge because they each have different functions and physical characteristics. A conscious choice has been made for the university campus to comple- ment the surrounding streets and neighborhoods rather than be separated from them. Since all three edges are motor vehicle routes, emphasis is placed on creating edges that appear to be more a part of the campus than the adjacent roadway.
Edges & Gateways Site Diagram
Ninth Avenue Ninth Avenue is owned and maintained by the City of Kearney. It is part of the surrounding historic residential neighborhood, with mature street trees, older homes, quiet intersecting streets, and a green and attractive campus edge, this is a prime loca- tion for the ‘front door’ to the University. Its intersection with Route 30 presents the opportunity to create a memorable gate- way. Changes to Ninth Avenue are primarily restricted to the intersections with the exception of the introduction of a multi-use trail for bicyclists and pedestrians created by widening the west sidewalk. Street trees are added where there are empty spaces and each intersection is enhanced with brick corners, crosswalk markings, ornamental lights, and UNK monuments.
Route 30 at Fine Arts
Proposed Section - Route 30 @ Brunner Hall Facing East
Ninth Ave. Facing South
Proposed Section - Ninth Ave. Facing North
Route 30 at College of Education
Proposed Section - Route 30 at College of Education Facing East
16
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
University Drive University Drive is a four-lane curving concrete roadway owned and maintained by the City of Kearney. It provides access to the campus from the east via its intersection with Twenty-ninth Street and Ninth Avenue. Campus access is also provided from the west and south via its intersection with Route 30. The goal for University Drive is to integrate it into the campus landscape, making it feel less like a high speed arterial highway and more like an integral part of the UNK campus experience. Narrow- ing the roadway, adding a multi-use trail along one side, enhancing key pedestrian crossings with signs and colorful pavement, and lining the drive with street trees are recommended to accomplish this goal. The proposed relocation of University Drive’s intersection with Route 30 will present a timely opportunity to study the proposed transportation demands for this corridor and to work with the City of Kearney to determine how narrowing the road and improving pedestrian crossings can be accom- plished. Another important recommendation is to revise the roadway alignment to remove the curve from Tower Hill Road to the Central Utilities Plant which will make more room for proposed campus improvements to the south and reduce pedestrian and bicycle conflicts with vehicles at the intersections with 15th Avenue and the Central Entryway.
Existing Large Spaces Currently most of the outdoor spaces on campus, with the exception of recreation fields, are used infrequently for informal gathering and only occasionally for games and ceremonies. This is due partially to adverse weather conditions and limited programming but it is also be- cause the spaces may not be comfortable or accommo- dating for those activities. Also some spaces are under used because they seem remote or hard to get to. An example is Founders Quadrangle, there is space to meet, play games, or hold an event but the layout of walkways, buildings, and the bell tower discourages these activities. Students have said that Founders is primarily a place to “pass through.” Most building entrance spaces within the quadrangle are not well developed as outdoor destina- tions. The walls, trees, bell tower plaza, and walkways also divide the quadrangle so that green spaces are small and formal. The master plan proposes subtle changes: widening walks, removing some trees, enhancing build- ing entrances, and opening up the bell tower plaza, to overcome these obstacles without changing the nature of the place or its identity. Proposed Large Spaces Broad open lawns surrounded by mature shade trees and gracious academic buildings are often the most memo- rable campus spaces. “University Green” is proposed to be just such a place. The green is designed to easily attract small and large groups for both formal ceremonies and informal activities. These opportunities are created by surrounding University Green with stately academic buildings, and by providing comfortable, tree lined walk- ways, a central pergola for events, enhanced building entries, a public art plaza, comfortable seating areas, and easy to reach bicycle paths. Small Spaces Small-scale spaces are also important to include as they provide an intimate setting for small groups to meet and feel comfortable in a more private setting. They also provide valuable spaces for students and faculty to visit alone, to read or study. Small scale spaces can only be successful if their environment is truly intimate, meaning the space should be quiet and located away from roads, parking, and major activity zones and its design should not interfere with the continuity of major quadrangles, concourses, and open spaces on campus.
Founders Quadrangle
University Drive
Proposed Section - University Drive Facing East @ Proposed Central Parking Garage
C. Campus Spaces The design of outdoor spaces on campus is focused on nurturing a sense of community and making useable destinations with a variety of size, character and purpose. The intent is not only to provide iconic concourses, green quadrangles, and ceremo- nial venues but also to create places for small gatherings and quiet contemplation. Designing spaces that serve to encourage human interaction is critical to fulfilling the educational mission of this institution, as interaction and scholarly discussion are fundamental components of the learning process.
Proposed - University Green
Small Space at CU Boulder
Building Entrance & Large Gathering Space - CU Boulder
17
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
D. Public Art Public art is a vital component of the landscape master plan and its integration into campus spaces and places is an important part of fulfilling the design prin- ciples. The implementation of a program for assembling a unique collection of art within the landscape is a multi-step process that requires the careful consideration and hard work of a dedicated group of professionals. Following is a description of the benefits of such a program, the steps required for creating one, and recom- mendations for places within the proposed campus landscape that are most suit- able for public works of art.
Building Entrances Building Entrances have great potential to become meeting places, study zones, and gathering points. They can encourage a sense of community and become an extension of each building, a gateway to its interior, and a place closely linked to the academic, residential, or administrative functions contained within. To provide for these uses, building entrances should have a paved area large enough to eas- ily provide for circulation in and out of the building as well as spaces out of the traffic flow to be used for passive activities. A variety of seating options such as seatwalls, benches, chairs, and steps will attract a wider range of people. Wire- less UNK network and computer Internet access (Wi-Fi) is also recommended to make the area more useful for studying. Layered plantings that provide shade, a sense of enclosure, and seasonal interest will add beauty and comfort. Night light- ing, primarily from inside the building but supplemented by exterior fixtures that eliminate dark corners will extend the building’s welcome and nighttime use of the area. Bicycle parking should be convenient but located a sufficient distance away from the entrance so that it does not interfere with pedestrian flow or the suggested uses of the entrance area.
The best way to achieve the highest quality of “significant” Public Art is to follow a unified approach to its acquisition by forming a campus-wide Aesthetic Review Committee (ARC) established by UNK’s central administration. This committee, appointed by the Chancellor, will serve to evaluate artists and artwork, select the art or artist, recommend appropriate locations, and guide the design process to site the art on campus. This committee’s membership should include permanent members of the UNK’s Administration and Staff with key representation of UNK’s Office of the Chancellor, Facilities Management and Planning Department, includ- ing the Campus Architect; College of Fine Arts and Humanities; and the addition of MONA’s Director and Art Department Chair/ representative. It should also in- clude “stake-holders” for each individual project in addition to off-campus/outside experts when appropriate. The appointed members of the ARC should provide a critical and unique perspec- tive, people who can speak authoritatively and be particularly helpful in discuss- ing aesthetics, contextual themes and issues of quality related to the suitability of site locations for Public Art at UNK should be sought out. These individual mem- bers should also have a strong interest in Public Art, Art Appreciation, Architecture and Landscape Architecture in support of enhancing UNK’s environment. Criteria and Guidelines for Acquiring Public Art The quality of Public Art is determined at the point where the work of art and its audience intersect and the experience creates relevance. A few constant charac- teristics provide a legitimate basis for making critical aesthetic judgments. These factors are evidenced by the artist’s expression of skill and imagination, concept execution, and visual representation of aesthetic values. The goal of acquiring Public Art should be the quality that meets or exceeds the standard of excellence reflecting the academic institution of higher learning, research, and education.
The ‘Covenant’ by Alexander Liberman at UPenn
Criteria for Selection •
Artists of Significance: Demonstrated artistic/career achievements and documented professional qualifications and recognition. Artistic Merit/Excellence: Their artwork should demonstrate their ability to master (craftsmanship) their chosen medium and control their aesthetic and visual intentions. Originality: Their oeuvre reflects a creative vision and personal vocabulary of universal significance that also reflects the values of the time and place of its creation.
Section / Elevation A-A’ - Building Entrance Example
Benefits of Public Art on Campus • The character of a community and sense of place can be profoundly changed by “Public Art.” Public Art is a unique way to visually communicate the true nature and spirit of the University.
•
• Public Art can enhance the institutional identity and can create new “landmarks” that reflect the cultural and historic significance of the area.
•
• Public Art adds a valued educational dimension in the development of visual literacy and functions as a vehicle of self-discovery that is not possible through traditional educational experiences.
• Public Art can serve to humanize the campus environment by creating spaces for informal gathering.
• Appropriateness of proposed site/location:
The assessment of the relevance of the work of art to its location and ability to attract and captivate an audience is critical. Determine the suitability of the proposed artwork to be feasible in the relationship to the site concerning the appropriate scale (civic, pedestrian or vehicular) to the site.
Public Art Evaluation and Selection It is critical that UNK develop a cohesive, consistent, and standardized process for the selection and placement of Public Art on campus. This includes the existing “Percent for Art Program,” new purchases and/or commissions, and future dona- tions to UNK.
• Technical feasibility: The durability of construction, material, and finish for long-term maintenance, safety and preservation should be considered.
Plan - Building Entrance Example
18
Chroma Design Inc.
University of Nebraska - Kearney Campus Landscape Master Plan
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36Made with FlippingBook Online newsletter maker