Proposed changes may usher new life

University and City of Tyler officials are taking preliminary steps toward a more active and inviting campus. A proposed development project may provide an "urban" college experience for the next generation of students.

Dr. Gregg Lassen, vice president of business affairs, said the primary goal is to establish a park-like atmosphere where students and local residents can experience the college resources found in larger cities.

Lassen said he wants to create an environment similar to Southern Methodist University in Dallas and Texas Christian University in Fort Worth. He said it is "time to think about what amenities fit with the idea that this is the University-side of town."

Conceptual designs released by the city indicate the addition of aesthetic enhancements like scenic sidewalk paths and pocket parks, as well as conveniences like coffee shops and bookstores.

Lassen said these changes could establish the surrounding area as "University Woods," a distinctive brand and identity for the City.

The Tyler 21 Comprehensive Plan, unanimously approved by the Tyler City Council in 2007, provided the framework for expansion within the city.

The 20-year initiative is designed to address issues, such as downtown revitalization, historic preservation, parks and recreation, transportation and housing and neighborhoods, according to a statement released by the city.

University administrators believe development of the campus is a logical cog in the city's plan.

"We didn't create this plan," Lassen said. "(The University is) a customer in it. People in Tyler want to capitalize on this asset that they have. They want us to grow in a responsible manner."

City officials held a town hall meeting in August, allowing University representatives and citizens to present ideas and concerns.

Key points from members of the community included the desire for restaurants and additional student housing, although some homeowners expressed concerns that the expansion would require the University to impose on the surrounding neighborhoods.

"We've acquired enough open land that the expansion of the University is pretty well dictated," Lassen said. "It doesn't make any sense for us to expand into existing neighborhoods."

He also said current students are not likely to see any of these proposed changes while attending the University, but may enjoy them as a member of the community after graduation.

"This whole geographic area could be seen as ‘where the University is," he said. "That has value to the people in the neighborhoods and to the city."
A link to the proposal can be found at www.patriottalon.com.