FAQs: Answers
What is a Master Plan?
A Master Plan is a comprehensive and coordinated approach to the long-term development of the LMU campus. It will incorporate and accommodate all of the physical changes to LMU projected for the next 20 years, including identifying all of the facilities LMU expects to build. It is a blueprint for changes to all of the campus facilities, including residential, education and recreation buildings and outdoor spaces.
What are the benefits of having a Master Plan?
The Master Plan provides a set of guidelines that will serve as the roadmap for future physical developments on the campus. It establishes specific zones on the campus for particular uses and ensures the future developments will be consistent with the primary mission of the university, as well as maintaining the character of the campus. The Master Plan will create a more cohesive university campus that will improve upon the quality of the educational experience for students.
Does the campus really need to be modernized?
Yes. Two major studies recently were completed to identify long term needs for LMU. A study was completed to identify the space needs for each of the departments and schools on campus. The study identified serious existing space problems for many departments and schools and further identified future needs for space. A second study was conducted to assess the physical structures on campus. A majority of the buildings were constructed between the 1950s and 1970s and do not meet the current or future needs of the university. Additionally, due to their age and other factors, many buildings are experiencing increased maintenance and repair needs, which the Master Plan will address. The Master Plan also will improve the core of the campus by redirecting and decreasing internal traffic on Ignatian Circle, providing new parking structures at strategic locations on the campus, improving pedestrian connections throughout the campus and providing more on-campus housing.
How far into the future does the Master Plan look?
The Master Plan time horizon is 20 years.
Will the size of the campus expand in size or enrollment?
The campus will not expand the number of acres or the current student enrollment cap. LMU will retain its small residential campus experience. The Master Plan will involve the construction of new education, recreation and residential buildings. In addition, some buildings will be renovated and others reconstructed. For example, the Master Plan contemplates replacing old style dorms and cramped apartments with new up-to-date residential apartments for students.
What will the campus look like?
The aesthetics of the new facilities will be in line with the overall character of LMU’s current facilities. However, final designs have not yet been determined.
How will the Master Plan affect student enrollment?
In order to continually provide a high quality educational experience, LMU will maintain its relatively small student population within its residential campus setting. Enrollment is currently limited to 7,800 students, and LMU is not seeking to increase this limit.
How will student housing be affected?
LMU currently houses approximately 3,300 undergraduate students on campus. The Master Plan will increase on-campus student housing from 60% to 75% of undergraduate students.
How will parking be affected?
LMU plans to slightly increase the number of parking spaces provided on campus. The increase in student housing proposed in the Master Plan will reduce students living off-campus and reduce parking issues in the surrounding community and trips to and from the university.
How will the community be involved in the process?
In addition to the meetings held by the City of Los Angeles during the Master Plan approval process, LMU is seeking public input. LMU will be scheduling meetings with local neighborhood councils, neighborhood groups, community groups and business organizations. Additionally, the LMU Master Plan Web site will be continually updated with information on upcoming meetings and events. Members of the public may provide comments and ask questions on the Web site or call us at 800-371-8943.
How can I get more information about the Master Plan?
You can call us at our community relations information number 800-371-8943.