Jessica M. Harpel

The Board of Supervisors held a conditional use hearing regarding the West Chester University master plan. Key discussion topics included the formal zoning hearing process for the university's planned overlay district, the status of development notifications to nearby property owners, the review of project proposals on the university campus, and the establishment of party status for individuals interested in cross-examining witnesses or presenting evidence related to the master plan's impact.

This document provides a third-party review and recommendations for the West Chester University Master Plan, which outlines the University's growth and development over the next five years. The review evaluates compliance with the Planned University Campus District regulations and focuses on several key areas including proposed bed capacity, South Campus improvements, multi-modal transportation safety along South New Street, potential street closures for pedestrian access, environmental considerations such as water/sewer capacity and geothermal wells, and zoning compliance regarding temporary student housing. Recommendations are provided to address conflicting information, enhance safety, ensure coordination with stakeholders, and achieve regulatory compliance.

This Student Housing Development Study for West Chester University evaluates the existing campus housing infrastructure and student needs. It identifies challenges such as increasing demand, aging facilities, and off-campus housing costs. The study proposes multiple implementation scenarios for new construction, comprehensive renovation, and replacement of residential halls (including Killinger, Schmidt, Tyson & Goshen, College Arms, and South Campus Apartments). Key objectives include increasing on-campus bed count, improving student living experiences, addressing deferred maintenance, and aligning all initiatives with the University's overarching strategic plan and comprehensive master plan.

This Master Plan outlines comprehensive campus improvements for West Chester University, focusing on both North and South Campuses across three distinct phases: 0-5 years, 6-10 years, and 10+ years. The plan encompasses various projects including new building construction (e.g., residential and dining facilities, student activities buildings), extensive renovations of existing structures (e.g., science center, libraries, academic halls, student union, apartments), and critical infrastructure upgrades (e.g., geothermal maintenance, Rosedale Avenue gateway enhancements, Church Street pedestrianization, athletic field amenities, and parking solutions).

This document presents a conceptual stormwater management plan for West Chester University's Master Plan, outlining facility expansion over a 0-5 year period. It focuses on strategies to manage stormwater volume, water quality, and peak discharge rates for new development and redevelopment activities across various campus projects. Key objectives include maximizing infiltration, protecting natural features, and utilizing nonstructural and vegetation-based stormwater control measures. Specific projects addressed include Lawrence Hall, Francis Harvey Green Library renovations, Rosedale Avenue sidewalk upgrades, and the Sykes Building Expansion and Welcome Center.