A campus master plan is the long-range blueprint for the physical feature of the campus. It allows components of the strategic plan to come to life and guides how land, buildings, infrastructure, traffic, transportation and open spaces should evolve to support the institution's mission and growth. This plan is subject to change based on a number of factors, which could include appropriate funding and enrollment numbers.
No. The Master Plan is a long-term framework, not a construction schedule. Individual projects will be evaluated, prioritized and brought forward over time based on need, funding and feasibility. Each capital project will require separate approval before moving forward.
The Campus Master Plan identifies a range of potential projects over time such as student housing, athletics facilities, academic and research facilities, student life and support spaces, campus infrastructure and transportation improvements, and select mixed-use and partnership opportunities. Not all projects will happen at once, and each will be evaluated individually and based on their own merit.
The expansion of JMU’s mid-campus, which includes Bridgeforth Stadium, will be one of the initial development projects studied for feasibility, financial implications and potential revenue-sharing partnerships.
The university is using a process authorized under Virginia Procurement law called the Public-Private Education Facilities and Infrastructure Act (PPEA). It allows universities to partner with private organizations and non-profits to deliver certain projects. These partnerships (also known as P3s) are designed to accelerate project timelines, bring additional expertise and share or transfer financial and construction risk. Other colleges and universities throughout the Commonwealth have used it to accomplish many of the projects they’ve undertaken. Each project done under a PPEA would be carefully evaluated to be sure it’s the right tool to employ before moving forward.
JMU is committed to advancing both the Campus Master Plan advancing campus development and The Madison Promise strategic plan in a way that is fiscally responsible and financially sustainable. The Board of Visitors has directed the university to explore a range of funding approaches by identifying existing internal resources that can be reallocated or used more efficiently before pursuing new funding. Where additional investment is needed, funding will vary by project and may include a mix of traditional sources such as state funding and philanthropy, public-private partnerships, and revenue-generating opportunities such as mixed-use development and strategic campus partnerships.
Preserving the character and identity of JMU’s campus is a top priority. The Madison Promise and the Campus Master Plan were developed with input from alumni, faculty and staff, students and members of the greater campus community. These plans were designed to preserve the student experience so many have embraced over time, while positioning JMU to create an even greater sense of community and social connection for students. Buildings are extensions of the infrastructure of the campus community that will never be able to replace the pride one has for JMU!
