USFSM Campus Master Plan Declares Grand Vision

BRADENTON – University of South Florida's Dr. Arthur Guilford kicked off the update, stating that by law, USF is required to update their long-term plan every five years. Guilford announced that he was really happy with the progress made thus far. As he put it, "You have to think big. If it's not in the plan, you can't do it." He noted that there are now 4,700 students on campus and that in five years the branch campus will be a "resident campus", with freshman. 

Their 2020 plan includes a separate SACS accreditation, a transition to a four-year undergraduate program, plus a masters level graduate program. He said there would be student housing on campus with recreational needs and an expansion south into Sarasota county. Guilford pointed out they were approved for two more buildings, which would still not be enough. The plan had expansions north and south for student housing, including parking.

 
USF Planning and Management Director Rick Lyttle took over the update presentation. With future maps that included plans for a 50 room hotel, a conference center, parking decks -- north and south -- a Crosley museum and a USFSM Entrepreneurial Center, a grand vision began to take shape

Many of the Crosley Foundation Board members voiced their pleasure with the future plans. Much of the credit goes to Charlie Hunsicker, Manatee County's Natural Resource Director for his tireless efforts organizing representatives from USF, New College, Crosley Foundation and Sarasota County in order to get all of the work done that drives the project. This sentiment was expressed by many. 

Board members and commissioners shared some concepts about the traffic design for turn lanes, landscape and safety and there were some reassurances about leaving the reserve areas untouched. But overall, what was overwhelmingly clear was the bright future for the region that would be ushered in with this maturing University. There seemed to be not one chair which didn't have someone feeling happy and proud sitting in it, and eager to go forward.