Client:
Louisiana State University at Alexandria
Dr. Robert Cavanaugh, Chancellor
(318) 473-6444

In 2000 Louisiana State University - Alexandria contracted Moore Planning Group, LLC (MPG) to develop a campus enhancement master plan. The goal of the plan was to dress up the campus with trees and new sidewalks, and screen unsightly and poorly planned facilities. As analysis work progressed, critical and exciting discoveries that would help the university move forward as a dynamic and competitive institution could not be ignored. The resulting plan is a far-reaching, visionary document. It anticipates development of an expanded campus integrated with the Dean Lee Research Station of the LSU AgCenter. Another goal is to encourage a strong cooperative relationship between the LSU AgCenter and LSUA in regards to shared infrastructure, and maintenance projects.

The plan envisions a center for education, research, economic development, culture and recreation to serve the region well into the future. The master plan provides developmental guidelines promoting utilization of all campus property and development of a modern educational institution conforming with current trends and technology. This plan enhances the institution’s educational mission beyond the classroom to the general campus environment. With this plan, LSUA’s emerging new identity can be the catalyst for identifying and forging technology-based partnerships with local businesses and the LSU AgCenter which will be cornerstones of the university’s new mission. These partnerships will create value and help bring new commerce and industry to the region, broaden the employment base and increase revenues. Another potential benefit of combining these resources is the opportunity to link AgCenter Forestry Research, The National Forest, and LSUA Science curriculums into one coordinated effort. Using trees and vegetation on site, forestry students can learn from AgCenter officials while taking advantage of university experiments.

The master plan process involved site investigation and analysis of campus history, natural systems, roadways, parking utilities, pedestrian circulation and future program needs. MPG conducted extensive user group information and input sessions on the campus. As part of the master plan progress, MPG held review sessions at appropriate intervals to maintain strong communication and quality control with the university. The final master plan was completed which included a strategic implementation report with phasing and funding for high priority projects. The master plan generated immediate results in the form of a new badly needed parking facility, state approval of a long delayed multi-purpose academic facility, and capital outlay applications for new campus entrances.