The Research Park is to support the evolving academic and research mission of the University while promoting sustainability and a comprehensive vision of the future and growth of the college of engineering as well as partnerships with private industry. The existing Research Park is comprised of 10 buildings totaling approximately 563,000 SF and roadway infrastructure and basis utilities for additional growth and development. College of Engineering proposed a Phase I development of 5 new parcel support approximately 500,000 SF located with the Research Parkway loop south of Enterprise Drive and adjacent to the Bush Library. The vision for the Phase I development is to provide state-of-the-art research facilities within the Research Park setting. It has been designed to support the five new research facilities for the College of Engineering within the Research Park CCR Guidelines taking into consideration parcel sizes, site coverage, building FAR, and required parking.
The integration of amenities with the Research Park is important. The Phase I master plan envisions abundant quality open space, to create the “place” and provide both visual and accessible open space. In addition, as described in the Pedestrian Circulation Section, a large network of pedestrian walk and bike paths is proposed liking building within the natural environment. Pedestrian bike path may include a PAR Course for exercise, walks, jogging, and bike rides. In addition to this the master plan proposed within the central liner park additional recreation facilities which may include picnic tables and landscape seating area for lunch time use, basketball sports court, and lawn area for games. Consideration for a common trellis structure for shade and public gathering is recommended.