Campus Master Plans
The District of Columbia requires all universities to submit a campus master plan at least every ten years to the District’s Zoning Commission for approval. The District regulates campus master plans to ensure that educational campuses are: 1) well-planned and designed; 2) have long-term facilities plans; 3) minimize negative impacts that universities may have on surrounding residential neighborhoods; and 4) have planning processes that are consistent and transparent.
As a key part of the master plan process, the University obtains input and feedback from internal and external stakeholders so that a diversity of perspectives will be reflected in the development of the master plans for these campuses. In addition to conducting meetings with students, faculty, and staff, the University holds meetings open to the community.
Van Ness Campus Master Plan
The University of the District of Columbia (the “University”)’s Van Ness Campus master plan was initially approved in 2011. The current master plan (“2020 Van Ness Campus Master Plan”) will expire on December 31, 2029. The 2020 Van Ness Campus Master Plan serves as the central comprehensive planning document for the Van Ness Campus. It lays out the institution’s vision and sets parameters, policies, and directions for the physical development of the campus over the next decade.
Lamond-Riggs (formerly Bertie Backus) Campus Master Plan
In 2022, the University embarked on an extensive process of creating a new campus master plan for the Bertie Backus Campus. In April 2023, the campus was renamed the Lamond-Riggs Campus. Currently, the University is seeking approval for this campus’ master plan. Once approved, it will be the central comprehensive planning document for the Lamond-Riggs Campus. It also will lay out the institution’s vision, and set parameters, policies, and directions for the physical development of the campus over the next decade.
Staff
David Franklin, Chief Operating Officer david.franklin@udc.edu
Avis Russell, General Counsel avis.russell@udc.edu
Javier Dussan, Vice President, Facilities & Real Estate Management javier.dussan@udc.edu
Erica Wright, Assistant General Counsel erica.wright1@udc.edu
Juanita Gray, Director, Community Engagement juanita.gray@udc.edu