Campus Master Plan FAQ
Q: Is the University of St. Francis staying at its current location?
A: Yes, under the leadership of USF President Michael Vinciguerra, the university has made the decision to remain and to expand at its current location. The university envisions itself as an important component of the its neighborhood and within the City of Joliet.
Q: Has the university asked the City of Joliet to purchase home in the area?
A: The University of St Francis has not asked the City of Joliet to use it Right of Eminent Domain to acquire land for university use.
Q: How is the university going to purchase the property it needs to complete their Campus Master Plan?
A: The University has been in negotiation with property owners regarding the purchase of their land. All property that has been purchased by the university has been through typical economic and market forces, the university and the owner offer and make counter offers on the property until both sides come to a mutually agreed-upon price.
Q: What is the university doing with the land they own on the far west side of the City of Joliet?
A: Given the rapid growth in the area the university has made the decision to wait a couple of years before making a final decision on its Ridge Road property. Currently we are examining the cost and benefits of either selling the land or working with a developer in a joint venture for a commercial project on the land.
Q: What is the timeframe of the university's master plan?
A: We have divided the campus master plan into 3 major phases. The first phase runs from 2005 through 2007 and focuses on the renovation of Motherhouse and Marian Dorm. The second phase begins in 2008 and runs another 3 years. The final phase of the master plan will be between 6 and 9 years.
Q: What is the university doing about the parking problem?
A: A significant component of the master plan is to solve the parking problems in the neighborhood. Currently USF has approximately 300 off street parking spots. At the completion of the master plan the number of off street parking stalls will increase to 1030 spots.
Q: When will we see these new parking areas?
A: Our goal is to have an additional 150 to 200 off street parking spots by August 31, 2005. During the entire phase 1 of the plan we will add approximately 300 off street parking spots.
Q: Will the university continue the neighborhood meetings that were held last spring and summer?
A: Yes, USF is committed to working with the neighborhood, CAPA, and the City as it begins to implement our campus master plan. A major objective within the master plan is to open up the campus to the neighborhood and to become a partner with our neighbors.
Q: Who can I contact if I have a question?
A: Please contact Ms. Nancy Pohlman, Director of University Relations at (815) 740-3379 or email npohlman@stfrancis.edu