The Master Plan provides direction for preserving and enhancing the campus landscape. It implements the concepts and recommendations of the 1997 Campus Plan adopted by the University as its framework for campus renewal and future physical development. Its purpose is to formulate a vision and strategy for improving the campus image and to arouse an appreciation of its traditions, existing conditions, and potential. The strategy contributes to meeting the functional requirements of the university, and creates a framework that will guide the future development of outdoor spaces. The two guiding principles to the campus planning effort are:

· Preserve the beauty of Mt. Oread
· Create an environment that shows respect for learning.

Over the past years, storms, disease and mechanical damage have taken their toll on thousands of campus trees, and many others are age-worn. There is also pressure from too many groups affecting the campus landscape with facility projects while there are no guidelines available to ensure protection of the image of the campus. This Master Plan addresses these impacts on the landscape.