Comprehensive Facilities Plan Presented July 2024

Aerial rendering of future campus

St. Cloud State University announced in July of 2024 a new Comprehensive Facilities Plan that defines and prioritizes how space is used on campus in order to create a more vibrant, connected campus environment. A Comprehensive Facilities Plan is the guiding document for short-term and long-term planning of the physical campus (buildings, landscaping, and hardscaping). This Comprehensive Facilities Plan will serve as an action guide to realigning the physical spaces with the institution's new and evolving needs.  

St. Cloud State maintains more square feet of buildings per student than any other Minnesota State institution, highlighting the need to occupy less space while enhancing the campus experience through pedestrian walkways and increased natural spaces. We are adapting to changes in campus demographics by adjusting our campus footprint to allow for new and evolving needs. 

The plan is not just about reducing space; it is about reimagining our campus to better serve our students, faculty, staff, and the broader community. We are creating an environment that fosters innovation, collaboration, and excellence.  

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PLAN

The next few years are pivotal in redefining our campus to meet the evolving needs of our academic community. This plan achieves our long-term vision of a more dynamic, sustainable, and forward-looking university.

Interim President Larry Dietz

July 10, 2024 Campus Presentation

Rendering of solar panels on new parking lot

A presentation of the new Comprehensive Facilities Plan showcasing images, maps, and data points was presented by Interim President Larry Dietz, Associate Vice President for for Academic Operations and Resources Brandon Johnson, and Facilities Planning and Construction Director Kelly Bartlow.

The new Comprehensive Plan follows the guiding principles of:

  • Balance
  • Welcome
  • Connect
  • Activate
WATCH
Artist rendering of students on campus with green space

River Engagement

Artist rendering of students crossing street with nice landscaping

6th Street Enhancements

Artist rendering of students walking on sidewalk in front of ISELF building

Southside Renovations

Key Initiatives

  • Improve Campus Gateways and Identity
  • Re-engage with the Mississippi River
  • Create memorable exterior spaces
  • Realign parking to improve campus cohesiveness
  • Realign campus pedestrian and vehicular pathways
  • Increase usage of preferred buildings; improve academic space adjacencies
  • Reduce the number of buildings being used and maintained
  • Remove buildings that are no longer needed
  • Realign spaces for student support needs
  • Atwood Memorial and Garvey Commons improvements
  • Housing/Residential Life improvements
  • Athletic & Recreation facility and site improvements
  • Address deferred maintenance and improve quality of spaces
  • Physical plant and utilities improvements
  • Substantial remodels or new construction
  • Initiatives related to leased properties and off-campus properties