Facilities Master Plan

Methodology

Successful master planning projects begin with the planning team gaining an understanding of the functions or operations to be performed within the campus. Because of this, the planning team began with a series of programming workshops, facility tours, data collection, observations, and listening. That information is documented herein.

To define the scope of growth to be incorporated into the master plan, the following strategies were implemented:

Sustainable Designs:

Green River Community College has a long history of environmental awareness. The design of the recently completed Technology Center exemplifies the latest effort to maximize the principles of "Green Architecture," the reduction of energy consumption, elimination of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), and maximization of natural lighting systems. Locating this center alongside the science center on the former track and field minimized the impact on surrounding vegetation. Although a LEEDs (U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification was not a specific goal, the target for the Technology Center was a LEEDs Silver Rating. During the 2005 legislative session, the governor signed Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5509, requiring state-funded projects over 5,000 s/f to be designed, constructed, and certified to at least the LEEDs Silver Rating.

Consideration of the natural campus setting was foremost during all programming workshops as described by the following FMP sustainable design (Green Architecture) Principles:

• We will construct and maintain facilities that incorporate quality, sustainable design elements, enhance the GRCC experience, and effectively use space for all college functions.

• Our respect for the land will create a desire for all things to work together.

• We will strive to be ecologically responsible in all planning efforts.

• We will preserve and protect the natural environment of the campus through continuity of architecture and control/management of green and open spaces.

During the workshops, the committee discussed the relationships of the spaces with their associated programs and services. Appropriate locations on campus for growth, renovation, and replacement, and the areas available/ required at each location, were determined. A series of new capital construction projects is proposed and located such that the projects organizationally support the campus planning goals.

Campus Character and Environs:

These workshops began with discussions regarding the physical presentation of the GRCC campus to the community and students it serves. A series of goals were developed as an aid to generating elements that will enhance not only the visual image of the college but also strengthen the general campus organization and service opportunities. This will result in a more user-friendly environment.

Campus Infrastructure:

Design and construction funding for substantive campus-wide infrastructure needs such as; campus utility loop construction; roadway and traffic improvements; mass transit/parking facilities, etc., which are necessary to support the broader college evolution, are extremely difficult to obtain. Therefore, it is essential that these needs be carefully planned and incorporated into the overall sequence of capital and master plan development. To the greatest extent appropriate, the costs of infrastructure needs shall be attached to specific building development projects in order to obtain the necessary funding though the normal funding mechanisms established by the State Board of Community and Technical Colleges.