KNOXVILLE — More green space and reduction of traffic and parking in the center of the campus are recommended in a draft report from a University of Tennessee planning committee.
Authors of the interim report from the Campus Master Plan Committee say their report provides a glimpse of what UT might look like over the next 25 years.
Marleen Davis, dean of architecture and design who chairs the committee, said work to date reflects the input of students, faculty, staff and local and national consultants.
UT President J. Wade Gilley appointed the committee, asking it to develop a plan for “creating a campus that reflects the quality of our university and creates a source of pride for students, faculty, staff and alumni.”
Consultants and committee members recommend eliminating surface parking lots and on street parking in the central area of the campus to create a more pedestrian friendly environment. A campus transit system and bikeways would transport students, faculty, staff and visitors from perimeter parking garages, the report says.
Passenger vehicles would be limited or eliminated on the Hill, Andy Holt Avenue east of the new agricultural campus bridge, parts of Volunteer Boulevard and in Melrose Place.
Higher priority would be given to developing green spaces on the main campus, Cherokee Farm and the agricultural campus. Cherokee Farm, across the Tennessee River north of Alcoa Highway, would be used for student housing, recreation fields and research.
The master plan committee recommends more collaboration between the university and the city through improved signage, closer ties with the Fort Sanders community and joint planning between the campus and city transportation systems.
The committee proposes use of the Second Creek area as a major connector linking the city, UT and the river.
“The draft report addresses an array of campus concerns and issues,” Davis said, “but additional comments and suggestions are welcome.”
Davis said individuals can comment on the report at the committee’s Web site: http://ur.utenn.edu/masterplan.