What is the scope of the Master Facility Plan?
The Master Facility Plan, developed by Ballinger, indicates a need for 1.1 million gross square feet of new construction, as well as nearly 650,000 square feet of renovation to existing buildings. The projected completion date is about 13 years, or around 2023.
In total, how many new buildings are projected and how many buildings will be renovated?
Five new buildings are planned for the main campus, four of which will replace buildings that are no longer considered functional for modern engineering education and research. The four campus buildings slated for replacement include the Engineering Science Building (ENS), W.R. Woolrich Laboratories (WRW), the Services Building (SER) and Burdine Hall (BUR). One new building is projected for the J. J. Pickle Research Campus. Three buildings on the main campus are proposed for renovation.
How does the Master Facility Plan fit with the Cockrell School's Strategic Plan?
The Master Facility Plan supports the aspirations of the Strategic Plan. The Strategic Plan calls for the Cockrell School of Engineering to:
- Increase research productivity with modern lab space so faculty can strengthen their programs.
- Advance interdisciplinary research in strategic areas important for the nation.
- Provide undergraduate teaching laboratories and project space for improved "hands-on" learning.
- Integrate entrepreneurship and engage industry throughout the school's programs.
In what other ways does the Master Facility Plan support the Strategic Plan?
The Master Plan is a comprehensive and ambitious solution to the challenge facing the Cockrell School of Engineering. The key features are:
- A destination, identity and brand for engineering at The University of Texas at Austin.
- Interdisciplinary research space for new centers and programs in priority, as well as expansion space for all seven departments.
- Hands-on teaching laboratories and project space for undergraduate students.
- Facilities for entrepreneurship, K-12 outreach and distance learning.
- An environment that connects students, staff and visitors to the natural beauty of Waller Creek, campus and open space.
What is wrong with the current facilities?
If the facilities do not improve dramatically, the Cockrell School of Engineering will be at an increasing disadvantage in attracting excellent faculty and graduate students, competing for research centers and leading changes in engineering education. The quality of an engineering program is dependent on the research and educational facilities. Currently, the Cockrell School has little space that allows interdisciplinary work and is without space to teach project-centered education and house student project space.
