Change is here at FSU

Terronne Cuthrell – Writer

On Thursday, March 6th, Mr. Rudolph Cardenas, Associate Vice Chancellor for Facilities Management, along with Surface 678, the consulting landscape architects, presented the FSU 2013 Campus Master Plan Update. The 2013 plan is an aspirational plan for our campus that includes physical and functional improvements. These improvements will facilitate the achievement of the university’s strategic goals and support its academic mission.

The event opened with the introductions of the two hosts, Mr. Cardenas and Mr. Bob Lappas, who is with the landscape architectural company. The turnout was surprising. Students from Greek organizations, SGA, Campus Ministry, and other areas were present.

The presenters gave a brief history on the development of The Master Plan Update. They explained that the original 1999 Master Plan was developed by a different company and was not successfully deployed. However, the 1999 Plan did lay the groundwork needed to begin several important improvements.

In comparison with the 1999 Master Plan, the 2013 Plan is more realistic and further in reach with its development and construction of the buildings, including: the Nursing building, Renaissance Hall, and the Science and Technology building. The current consulting firm has been partnering with FSU since 2006 to achieve this vision.

The Master Plan Update identifies new improvements such as increasing the amount of student housing to 9,600 beds, creating an alumni/recreational center, a new Greek plot, expanding campus parking, and several other major projects. One improvement stood out to me specifically—the demolition of Bryant Hall.

I currently reside in Bryant Hall, and I was curious about their plans for the hall. However, I was satisfied with Mr. Cardenas’ response. He said that they plan on tearing down both Bryant and Vance Halls, but will build another hall that will house up to 500 students!

Near the end of the event, I was able to sneak in just a couple of questions…. I’m lying—I asked several! Firstly, I wanted to know if there would be another campus store or dining hall built near Bryant, Harris, Joyner, and Smith halls. They responded by saying that a store near the halls has been suggested before and it is still being considered. Also, I wanted to know if there would be renovations to older buildings on campus, like the Lyons Science Building and Hood Hall. According to Mr. Cardenas, older buildings on campus will be receiving renovations, especially the Lyons Science Building.

Though I asked a few questions, I wasn’t the only concerned student in the room. Questions poured in from other students. A few of the topics included the budget, the new Greek plots, and the rearrangement of the buildings on campus.

At that point the SGA President, Jalynn Jones, offered to meet with him to discuss any additional questions, comments, and opinions from the students on the Master Plan Update and the current state of the campus.

Mr. Cardenas closed with a sincere thanks to the students in attendance and a few words of assurance for those who were concerned. He also stated that he was surprised by the attendance and participation of the students. He stated, “When I saw the number of students coming in, I was overwhelmed with excitement for their interest to be involved in the planning process which showed their commitment to FSU.” He was extremely satisfied and wants students to continue to share thoughts and ideas.

Now Broncos, let’s remember that these updates directly affect us. We must make sure that our voices are heard. Our SGA President, Jalynn Jones, said she’d be happy to record any of our questions or concerns for Mr. Cardenas before her meeting. Continue to be involved Broncos! Remember, you are the change you seek!