THE SISTERS OF CHARITY AND
THE COLLEGE OF MOUNT SAINT VINCENT
CAMPUS MASTER PLAN UPDATE DRAFT FOR REVIEW MARCH 2015
PETER GISOLFI ASSOCIATES Architects • Landscape Architects, LLP
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS COLLEGE OF MOUNT SAINT VINCENT Dr. Charles Flynn, President Kevin DeGroat, Vice President for Operations Ryan Anderson, Operations Manager
PETER GISOLFI ASSOCIATES Peter A. Gisolfi, AIA, ASLA, LEED AP, Senior Partner Sandra K. Mintzes, AIA, LEED AP, Partner
THE SISTERS OF CHARITY Sr.Jane Iannucelli, President
Architects • Landscape Architects, LLP
Christopher Tramutola, RLA, LEED AP, Landscape Architect Robert Mintzes, LEED AP, Designer and Photographer Karl Tanner, Renderer
CONTENTS INTRODUCTION
Pg.
1
• Reasons for the Master Plan • Objectives for the Master Plan
SUMMARY
SPACE NEEDS
Pg.
32
• Academic Space Needs • Residential Space Needs
2
SITE ANALYSIS • Site Context -- Regional + Local Setting -- Neighboring Context + Land Use -- Local Zoning
4
• Site History -- Development of the Campus -- Mount Saint Vincent Today -- Property and Building Ownership
10
• Natural Features -- Topographic Relief -- Slopes -- Hydrology, Soils, Drainage -- Vegetation
16
• Man-made Features -- Utilities -- Vehicular / Pedestrian Access + Circulation
26
• Opportunities and Constraints
30
THE MASTER PLAN
36
• Projects Completed Since 2004 Plan
38
• Concepts -- Campus Figure Ground -- Circulation + Parking -- Campus Destinations + Pedestrian Links -- Campus Landscape Plan -- The Overall Campus Plan • Building Projects -- Founders Hall and The Academy -- The New Academic Quadrangle -- Student Housing and Nursing Laboratories -- Athletics + Recreation
48
• Sustainability Projects -- Campus Green Initiatives -- Energy Projects
60
• Deferred Maintenance Projects -- Founders Hall -- Science Hall -- Elizabeth Seton Library -- Fonthill Castle -- Peter Jay Sharp Athletic Center and Cardinal Hayes Auditorium and Gym -- Residence Halls
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MASTER PLAN REPORT
i
INTRODUCTION REASONS FOR THE MASTER PLAN The Sisters of Charity and the College of Mount Saint Vincent are distinct institutions with a common history and home. They have common concerns about the long-term vision for their magnificent shared campus in Riverdale, New York. •
The Sisters of Charity share a vibrant and varied charism, and the College is one of their foundations. To support their work, their headquarters requires residential, office, and archive space. In recent years, the College of Mount Saint Vincent has experienced enrollment growth and an increasing number and percentage of residential students. As these trends continue, more space will be required for administration, faculty, teaching, residence halls, and recreation.
•
Founders Hall
The College of Mount Saint Vincent and the Sisters of Charity jointly embarked upon a comprehensive study of their unique property in 2002. They commissioned Peter Gisolfi Associates Architects • Landscape Architects, LLP to create a Master Plan for long-range campus development. This Master Plan was completed in 2004, and has been updated in 2015.
OBJECTIVES FOR THE MASTER PLAN The College and the Sisters of Charity identified the following key objectives to guide the development of the Master Plan: ·· ·· ·· ·· ·· ·· ··
Sisters of Charity
Transform outdoor spaces and groups of buildings into “campus spaces.” Accommodate growth while respecting and taking advantage of the unique physical setting. Understand current space utilization patterns for the existing College facilities. Predict future academic, administrative, and residential College space needs. Rationalize pedestrian, vehicular, and service circulation on the site. Maximize open space. Maintain stewardship of the land, and respect the context of the neighborhood and region. The Grotto
1
SUMMARY The Sisters of Charity and the College of Mount Saint Vincent share a scenic, 70-acre site that slopes from the street level at Riverdale Avenue down to the edge of the Hudson River. The campus connects the orthogonal grid of the Bronx to the regional landscape of the Hudson River Valley and the extraordinary views of the Palisades. The campus includes a series of handsome 19th-century buildings, some early 20th-century neoclassical structures, and a scattering of more modern buildings constructed since 1960. The 2004 Master Plan for the campus analyzed the natural landform and identified three zones as separate and distinct terraces: (1) a contemplative park; (2) an academic center; and (3) a river lawn area used largely for passive outdoor recreation and celebration with the Hudson River as a backdrop. 1. “Lourdes Park:” The uppermost zone, adjacent to the main thoroughfare of Riverdale Avenue, is a level, park-like area that features the Lourdes Grotto, the oldest outdoor grotto still in existence in the United States. The Master Plan shows that development in this area is restricted. 2. “The Academic Core:” The second level area at mid-slope accommodates the core academic campus — the library, science building, auditorium, gymnasium, and some dormitories. The Master Plan places future academic and residential buildings here to create a series of interconnected quadrangles. 3. “The River Lawn:” At the base of the slope is a great lawn defined by three buildings: Founders Hall, (an elongated 19th-century academic building and convent which houses most of the classrooms and faculty offices), Maryvale Hall, and Fonthill Castle. The expansion of Maryvale Hall to create a new communications and art building at the entrance to the river lawn helps define a “gateway” to this impressive expanse of lawn and water. Redirected roads and relocated parking throughout the site reinforce and support important quadrangles, outdoor rooms, and pedestrian connections.
Founders Hall
The campus plan for the Sisters of Charity and the College of Mount Saint Vincent is complex: • It relates to the realities of topography and view – to the three terraces that exist naturally on that site. • It shows that the campus would benefit from a series of interconnected outdoor rooms, which can exist comfortably only at the mid-level terrace. • It demonstrates the need for distinct pedestrian and vehicular movement paths, even as they intersect and overlap. The 2004 Master Plan and this 2015 update consider all of these factors.
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LEGEND: Master Plan: Concept Existing Campus Buildings Steep Slopes Major Destinations Major Vehicular Circulation Limited Access
RIVER LAWN
RIVER GATEWAY
ACADEMIC CORE
LOURDES PARK RESIDENTIAL CORE
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S I T E A N A LY S I S A comprehensive inventory of the 70-acre site was conducted to understand its regional and local context, adjacent land use and zoning, historical development, and natural and man-made features. The analysis of the site was based on data gathered from USGS maps, old and new property surveys, Natural Resources Conservation Service files, New York City zoning maps, site observations, maintenance staff interviews, and discussions with utility representatives.
SITE CONTEXT REGIONAL + LOCAL SETTING Mount Saint Vincent is located in Riverdale, New York in the northwestern corner of the Borough of the Bronx, the only one of New York City’s five boroughs attached to the North American mainland. The site lies just south of the Westchester County border in the Hudson River Valley, and is directly east of New Jersey across the Hudson River.
Riverdale Avenue
Geologically, the bedrock formations of the western portion of the Bronx primarily consist of limestone from the Inwood formation and gneiss of the Fordham formation. During the Ice Age, an ice sheet cut through New Jersey into New York City, dumping boulders ripped from the Palisades into the Riverdale area which is the highest point in the Bronx. Consequently, the Mount Saint Vincent site is characterized by rocky soils and areas of exposed bedrock. The Hudson Estuary, to which the Hudson River is a major contributor, is a diverse ecosystem at the edge of the site. The tides of the Hudson River rise and fall everyday from the tip of Manhattan up the river past the campus to Troy, NY.
Geologic formations on the campus
LEGEND: Master Plan Existing Campus Buildings Neighboring Buildings View from campus across the Hudson River
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COLLEGE OF MOUNT SAINT VINCENT
View from the new athletic field to the river and Palisades
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S I T E A N A LY S I S SITE CONTEXT NEIGHBORING CONTEXT + LAND USE The neighborhood surrounding the Mount Saint Vincent site is mainly commercial and residential. Lower density apartment buildings are located closer to the Hudson River and higher density buildings are closer to Riverdale Avenue. Along Riverdale Avenue there are clusters of commercial businesses; to the east of Riverdale Avenue there are single- and two-family detached and semi-detached residences. South of the site is a neighborhood of single-family detached residences. The Hebrew Home at Riverdale is just south of the campus, and the Leake & Watts School borders the campus on the north. In addition, several multi-story apartment buildings, including the Classic Residence senior living center, also lie just north of the campus. The Hudson River forms the westernmost edge of the property, but the Metro-North railroad corridor creates an actual edge to the campus. Manufacturing plants dominate the riverfront northwest of the campus, including a sewage treatment plant which is located in and operated by the City of Yonkers; emissions from this plant often have a negative impact on the site.
View facing north on Riverdale Avenue (MSV on left)
LEGEND: Existing Land Use MSV Campus
Existing Campus Site Existing Campus Buildings Neighboring Buildings Commercial Residential Apartments Residential Houses
Google Map
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S I T E A N A LY S I S SITE CONTEXT LOCAL ZONING The property lies within the R-4 Residential District and falls under the category of a “Special Purpose District.” The property is designated as an NA-2 “Special Natural Area District #2,” which is mapped only in areas where outstanding natural features must be protected. The conditions for certification and authorization of special permits are described in Article X “Special Purpose Districts, Chapter 5 “Special Natural Area District.” Under these regulations, any alteration of a site’s natural features related to any form of development are subjected to a rigorous review and approval process. Features such as trees, steep slopes (equal to or greater than 15%), and rock outcrops must be protected. Building setback restrictions in the R-4 Residential Zone require a minimum 10 ft. front yard and a setback total of 13 ft. for the side yards (2 minimum) with a minimum of 5 ft. width of any side yard. West 261st Street is a mapped street with a 60-foot right-of-way; the lines defining the right-of-way become “lot lines.” There are specific setback requirements and skyplane restrictions for new buildings proposed along it. Where West 261st Street meets Palisades Avenue, a “corner lot” is created which affects potential sites for new buildings or additions along the southern edge of the campus. Under current F.A.R. limitations, the amount of allowable floor area far exceeds the amount of new construction that would be contemplated under the Master Plan.
LEGEND: Existing Zoning Existing Campus Buildings Natural Area District #2
A
Apartments (High Density)
M
Apartments (Medium Density)
MG
Apartments (Medium Density)
NA-2 Special Natural Area C1-2 Commercial S-50 Residential (Single Family Detached) R1-2 Residential (Single Family Detached) R3-1 Residential (Single & Two-Family Detached and Semi-Detached)
R4 Facing north on Riverdale Avenue (MSV on left)
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The intersection of Palisade Avenue and 261st Street
Residential (Low-Density General)
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S-50
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R-4
NA-2
R3-1
C1-2 R1-2
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S I T E A N A LY S I S SITE HISTORY DEVELOPMENT OF THE CAMPUS Period I: 1856 to 1899: The Sisters of Charity purchased the property in 1856. By the end of the 19th-century, the property included the Academy/Motherhouse (Founders Hall), Maryvale Hall, Fonthill Castle, The Villa, The Gatehouse, The Lodge, Marillac Hall, Boyle Hall, and LeGras Hall.
Period II: 1900 to 1929: After the Academy expanded its mission and became a College in 1910, the campus was expanded with the acquisition of additional land and the construction of Seton Hall, Rosary Hall, and Cardinal Hayes Auditorium and Gymnasium. Additions to Founders Hall and Marillac Hall were also built.
Historic photo of Maryvale Hall
Period III: 1930 to 1999: During this period of major development, the Mother House was expanded and Science Hall, Spellman Hall, Alumnae Hall, Seton Library, and Ely Hall were constructed.
Period IV: 2000 to present: Over the past fouteen years, many capital projects were completed, Among these, Maryvale Hall was expanded in two phases, Mastronardi Hall and the Peter Jay Sharp Athletic and Recreation Center were built, and renovations were made to Marillac, Science Hall, Founders Hall, Seton Library, Seton Hall, Alumnae Hall, Hayes, and Spellman Hall. A chronology of the projects completed after the 2004 Master Plan can be found on page 36 of this Master Plan update. Maryvale Hall today
LEGEND: Historical Development Existing Campus Site Purchased in the 20th Century Period I: 1856 – 1899 Period II: 1900 – 1929 Period III: 1930 – 1999 Period IV: 2000 – Present Historic photo of Science Hall
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Science Hall today
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S I T E A N A LY S I S SITE HISTORY MOUNT SAINT VINCENT TODAY The campus as it is currently configured is comprised of 22 buildings. Of these, nine buildings contain spaces that are primarily used by the College, and nine are used exclusively by the Sisters of Charity. Founders Hall houses the Chapel which is used by the Sisters and the College. There is one small, freestanding maintenance building and additional maintenance support space under Rosary Hall. There is approximately 495,640 sf of building space occupied by the College.
LEGEND: Existing Site Plan CMSV Buildings 1. Founders Hall 2. The Academy 3. Fonthill Castle 4. Maryvale Hall 5. Seton Hall 6. Marillac Hall 7. The Lodge 8. Peter Jay Sharp Athletic & Recreation Center 9. Grace Center (Hayes Auditorium) 10. Science Hall 11. Seton Library 12. Mastronardi Hall 13. Alumnae Pavilion 14. Alumnae Hall 15. Spellman Hall 16. Hudson Heights (Dining Hall) 17. Guard Booth Sisters of Charity Buildings A. Rosary Hall B. The Convent C. Boyle Hall D. Ely Hall E. The Villa F. LeGras Hall G. The Gate House
Founders Hall and the Great Lawn today
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A B
1 8
Cemetery 3 2 9
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G C
Athletic Field
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Grotto 11
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S I T E A N A LY S I S SITE HISTORY PROPERTY AND BUILDING OWNERSHIP Ownership of the property and the buildings is divided between the Sisters of Charity and the College. The main east-west campus road is roughly the line of demarcation between the property owned by the Sisters and by the College.
LeGras Hall is owned by the Sisters of Charity.
Boyle Hall is owned by the Sisters of Charity.
Fonthill Castle is owned by the Sisters.
LEGEND: Building & Property Ownership Existing Campus Neighboring Buildings Property Owned by the College Property Owned by the Sisters Buildings Owned by the Sisters Buildings Owned by the College Marillac is owned by the College.
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Peter Jay Sharp Center is owned by the College.
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S I T E A N A LY S I S NATURAL FEATURES One of the most distinctive features of the campus is the sloping topography that offers dramatic views of the Hudson River and Palisades. An analysis of the topography reveals that there are three major plateaus separated by steeply sloping wooded terrain, stepping from the east to the west side across the site. These plateaus form three distinct landscape zones: the “Lourdes Park,” the “Academic Core,” and the “River Lawn.” Because of the steep slopes, the existing major buildings were built along a north-south axis within each of these plateaus. The three zones are linked by roads and pedestrian access routes. • Grotto Park, located on the eastern plateau adjacent to Riverdale Avenue, includes Lourdes Park and several of the Sisters of Charity’s historic buildings. • The Academic Core, forming the central plateau, consists of the Alumnae, Spellman, Mastronardi, and Seton residence halls, Seton Library, the Grace Center, Peter Jay Sharp Athletic and Recreation Center, and Science Hall. • The River Lawn is the western plateau bordered by the railroad and the Hudson River. Founders Hall, Fonthill Castle, Marillac, Maryvale, and the open lawns are located within this zone. Grade sloping from Seton Hall toward Founders Hall
“Lourdes Park”
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“The Campus Core”
“The River Lawn”
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S I T E A N A LY S I S NATURAL FEATURES TOPOGRAPHIC RELIEF The topography of the site is represented in two ways:
LEGEND: Topographic Relief
• A relief map shows the changes in elevation that take place across the site, and • A slope analysis drawing shows actual slope grades.
Existing Campus Buildings Below 20 ft.
The relief map depicts the relative difference in topography by thirty (30) foot changes in vertical elevation. There is a significant change in elevation across the site from the Hudson River, which is at mean elevation 3.4 feet above sea level, to Riverdale Avenue, which is at an elevation of approximately 150 feet above sea level.
20 ft. – 50 ft. 50 ft. – 80 ft. 80 ft. – 110 ft. 110 ft. – 140 ft. Above 140 ft.
Riverdale Avenue El. +150 ft
Hudson River El. +3.4 ft
West River Lawn
Section showing elevation change across the campus
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Steep Slopes
Campus Core
Steep Slopes
East Lourdes Park
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S I T E A N A LY S I S NATURAL FEATURES SLOPES The slope analysis shows that approximately two-thirds of the campus has slopes in the 0-10% range. Buildings, parking, and recreation areas are typically found in these areas. Nearly one-third of the site has slopes greater than 15%; these are protected by provisions in the NA-2 Special Purpose District. Special permitting must be obtained to alter these slopes. Because of the sloping topography of the site, there are issues of drainage, handicapped accessibility, and circulation which impact existing conditions and future planning.
View from Seton toward Maryvale and the river beyond.
LEGEND: Slope Analysis Existing Campus Buildings Less than 10% 10-20% 20-30% Greater than 30% Steep slope adjacent to Seton Hall with stone retaining wall
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S I T E A N A LY S I S NATURAL FEATURES HYDROLOGY, SOILS, AND DRAINAGE Preliminary information provided by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, indicates that the predominant soil types on the site are Charlton-Chatfield complex and Chatfield-Hollis complex. These soils are typically found in areas of glacial ablation from schist, gneiss and granite bedrock. These soils are usually moderately well-drained to excessively drained. At Mount Saint Vincent, the steepness of the slopes, shallow depth-to-bedrock, and impermeable areas (paving and buildings) have historically increased runoff throughout the campus. Maintenance, repair, and new construction projects must be cognizant of drainage issues.
Rock outcrop in wooded area
LEGEND: Drainage Existing Campus Buildings Terminus of Divide Major Drainage Divide Swales Rock outcrop adjacent to Fonthill Castle
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DRAINAGE MASTER PLAN REPORT
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S I T E A N A LY S I S NATURAL FEATURES VEGETATION Based upon the type and density of vegetation, the campus can be categorized as open lawn, tree lawn, or wooded area. An open lawn is defined as a mowed grass area which has no trees and is generally flat, enabling active or passive recreation. A tree lawn has grass areas with trees informally located, growing on sloping or undulating grounds. Wooded areas are comprised solely of trees, either as dense groupings or on steep hillsides. The presence of many mature, deciduous trees enhance the character of the campus. Species include oak, maple, London plane, sycamore, linden, and beech. There are limited specimen evergreen and ornamental trees as well. Shallow depth-to-bedrock has limited the depth of the root structures of certain trees. As a result of this, several large trees have fallen during storms. The removal of trees greater than 6” in caliper is regulated by the NA-2 Special Natural Area District designation.
“Open Lawn”
LEGEND: Vegetation Existing Campus Buildings Less than 10% 10-20% 20-30% “Tree Lawn” in autumn
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“Wooded Area”
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S I T E A N A LY S I S MAN-MADE FEATURES UTILITIES Establishing accurate utility information on a campus that has developed over the course of 150 years is a challenge. A 1962 Existing Utilities Plan and the 1967 Water Distribution Plan provided a starting point for documenting on-site utilities. In order to verify the information mapped in these plans, the approximate locations of all conductive utilities were marked out by means of electromagnetic equipment. Non-conductive utilities (plastic, clay tile, fiber optic, etc.) were not located in this procedure. Con Edison provided supplemental information, documenting the locations of high- and low-pressure gas lines. Electric service, including telephone and data, is provided overhead on poles. The pole lines follow various alignments, including locations within drainage channels along roads. These lines run through wooded and rock-outcrop areas, and run parallel to property lines. Water service for most of the campus comes from a 12� main under West 261st Street. For Alumnae Hall, water comes from a 12� main under Palisades Avenue. Locations of water lines vary within the campus, often under paved roadways or parallel to them. But, as with the electric pole lines, the water lines also run through wooded areas.
LEGEND: Utilities Existing Campus Buildings Water Lines Gas Lines Sewer & Drainage Electric Service Condensing units outside of Founders Hall
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Power to buildings is supplied by overhead wires
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S I T E A N A LY S I S MAN-MADE FEATURES VEHICULAR AND PEDESTRIAN ACCESS + CIRCULATION The main entry to Mount Saint Vincent is on Riverdale Avenue, but the primary service entrance is at the intersection of 261st Street and Palisade Avenue. Many students, staff, and visitors arrive at the campus by bus; several bus routes stop directly in front of the main entrance. However, the majority of students who attend daytime classes at the College currently reside on campus or come from the subway via shuttle bus. Many students and staff also drive to the College and, because the campus is steep, they prefer to travel within the campus by car. Pedestrians try to shorten the distances to their destinations by walking on the roads. This creates concerns about vehicle/pedestrian conflicts, especially because sidewalk space is limited. Student safety and vehicular complications are major concerns. There was a Metro-North Railroad stop at the College, but it closed in 1967 due to safety concerns. It burned down shortly thereafter. At this time, re-opening the railroad station is not an option.
Campus entry gate at Riverdale Avenue
LEGEND: Access & Circulation Existing Campus Buildings Access Points Main Vehicular Route Pedestrians w/ Limited Vehicular Access Road in front of Founders Hall
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Parking on road near Fonthill Castle with no sidewalks
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S I T E A N A LY S I S OPPORTUNITIES + CONSTRAINTS After analyzing the context, and the natural and man-made features of the site, a composite diagram was developed that illustrates where there are significant constraints and opportunities for future development of the campus. Steep slopes, heavily wooded areas and rock outcrops are major obstacles to building on the campus; the NA-2 special zoning protecting these natural features severely limits construction in those mapped areas. Any proposed development that could alter the topography along the current drainage divide must also be carefully controlled to prevent adding to existing drainage problems. There are zoning restrictions that limit building too close to the edges of the campus adjacent to private property on the north and south sides of the campus. The Grotto and its surrounding park cannot be altered and there are several other sacred spaces around the campus that cannot be changed. Development in the northwest section of the site is undesirable due to the odors from the sewage treatment plant. Flat or gently sloping areas of the campus offer the best potential for locating new buildings or for developing open space.
Limited future development between Fonthill and Founders
LEGEND: Opportunities & Constraints Existing Campus Buildings Opportunities Views Open Space Potential Academic Building Potential Residential Building Potential Athletic/Event Potential Constraints Heavily Wooded / Steep Slopes The flat land between Seton Library (left) and the Grace Center (right) has potential for future development.
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S PAC E N E E D S ACADEMIC SPACE NEEDS The needs for new academic space are modest. But enrollment growth and changes in academic offerings could change this in the future. Options for meeting the increasing demand for academic space include: Option 1: Renovate Founders Hall and the Academy, which houses administrative and departmental offices, classrooms, student activity spaces, and ceremonial spaces. Option 2: Construct new nursing laboratories at the lower level of a new residential building behind Founders Hall, near Seton Hall. Option 3: Renovate and expand Seton Library. Option 4: Construct a new multi-use building (approximately 60-70,000 sf) to the east of the Grace Center.
Computer lab
ALTERNATIVES: Academic Existing Campus Buildings Potential New Academic Space Classroom in Founders
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Science lab
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S PAC E N E E D S RESIDENTIAL SPACE NEEDS The residential population of approximately 800 students at Mount Saint Vincent is currently squeezed into existing dormitory space. This space is barely adequate to support the current residents. With the College’s near-term goal of expanding the resident population, new dormitory space is its highest priority. A study of the existing residential buildings and adjacent outdoor spaces resulted in a series of options for new dormitory buildings. Factors which influenced these residential options included: •• Potential for creating open space adjacent to dormitories (“residential quads”); •• Proximity to academic buildings and dining facilities; •• Controlling access and providing security. Option 1: Off campus housing. Option 2: A new residence hall adjacent to Seton Hall. Option 3: A residence hall adjacent to the northwest of Peter Jay Sharp Athletic and Recreation Center. Option 4: New residence hall construction adjacent to Spellman, Alumnae, and Marillac Halls.
Mastronardi Hall
ALTERNATIVES: Residential Existing Campus Buildings Potential Residential Space Dorm Room
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Marillac
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2004
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2005
COLLEGE OF MOUNT SAINT VINCENT
2007 2008
ll
n
2009
M
After completion of the Master Plan in 2004, the College embarked on the phased implementation of many projects to address infrastructure improvements, as well as academic, residential, and recreational space needs.
The following timeline shows the chronology of when these projects were completed.
2010 2011
MASTER PLAN PROJECTS COMPLETED 2004-2014
S Pa cie rti nc al e M He Re H Fo a A r no all dd yv igh Pa u va n iti al rti d t F t on e s al er o P Ha ion Re s ar un no Ha tia de ll S l R rs va ll tio Re har en H n ov al c. p Gy C at l M e io m n n Pa ari t er rti lla al c At Re H hl no all et Sh va ic tio Fi ar Fi t n ne p eld ss Ce Fo n Pa u te rti nd r al er Re s no Ha va ll tio n
Pa ari rti lla al c Ro Re H Pa a no all rti dw va al a tio Re ys n no va Sc tio Pa ie n rti nc S al e Ro Da har H R en a Pa a Tr nc p ov ll rti dw ain e Ce al a at in Stu nt io Re ys gS d e H no ui io & r Di ud va te ni so tio n n g n
r
te
S Ad har di p tio C n en
Pa cie rti nc al e Re H no all va tio n
Ne as w tro Do n rm ard ito i H ry a
S
2006 M
M
Re ary no v va ale tio H n/ a Ex ll pa ns io
THE MASTER PLAN PROJECTS COMPLETED SINCE 2004 MASTER PLAN
2012 2013 2014
CMSV Buildings 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17.
Founders Hall The Academy Fonthill Castle Maryvale Hall Seton Hall Marillac Hall The Lodge Peter Jay Sharp Athletic & Recreation Center Grace Center (Hayes Auditorium) Science Hall Seton Library Mastronardi Hall Alumnae Pavilion Alumnae Hall Spellman Hall Hudson Heights (Dining Hall) Guard Booth
Sisters of Charity Buildings A. B. C. D. E. F. G.
Rosary Hall The Convent Boyle Hall Ely Hall The Villa LeGras Hall The Gate House
A B
1 8
Cemetery 3 2 9
5
17
4
G C
Athletic Field
D
E
10
Grotto 11 6 12
15 7
14 16
13
F
MASTER PLAN REPORT
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THE MASTER PLAN CONCEPTS CAMPUS FIGURE GROUND As noted earlier in this report, the greatest need for new space is for student housing. While there is currently enough academic space on campus, the need for addiitonal academic space could increase in the future. The campus figure ground map indicates locations for potential new buildings.: 1. New residntial buildings or wings could be near or attached to Spellman and Alumnae Halls. These would be located to create residential quadrangles similar to the informal quadrangle between Mastronardi and Alumnae. 2. A new residential facility near Seton could create a small courtyard between its west side and the east side of Founders Hall. 3. New residence space could be built to the northwest of the Peter Jay Sharp Center. 4. The flat land flanking the Grace Center is a potential location for a new multi-use academic building.
LEGEND: Campus Figure Ground Existing Campus Buildings Existing Neighboring BuildPotential New Academic Buildings Potential New Residential Buildings Potential Athletic/Event Space
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3
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CAMPUS FIGURE GROUND MASTER PLAN REPORT
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THE MASTER PLAN CONCEPTS CIRCULATION AND PARKING Circulation and parking is governed by three major principles: 1. Create a clear pattern of vehicular circulation which will serve both cars and service vehicles. To the extent possible, this has been done and needs to be maintained when considering the addition of new buildings. 2. Minimize conflicts between pedestrians and vehicles. The construction of new sidewalks has improved conditions on the campus and has helped to separate pedestrians from vehicular traffic. A walkway along 261st Street from College Road to Marillac and the new athletic field would be a significant improvement. 3. Distribute parking discreetly throughout the campus. As a school with a significant commuter population, the accommodation of cars on campus is inevitable. Care has been taken to keep parking discreet. The lots adjacent to the River Lawn are screened with plantings to minimize the impact on the views. The only large area of parking on campus is located to the north of Eli Hall. The construction of a garage structure here could provide additional parking in the future, and could help to avoid the construction of new parking in sensitive site areas.
Main campus road
LEGEND: Circulation and Parking Existing Campus Buildings Existing Neighboring BuildPotential New Academic Buildings Potential Athletic/Event Space Primary Vehicular Access Secondary Vehicular Access Parking near Marillac
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COLLEGE OF MOUNT SAINT VINCENT
Parking to the west of Founders
Pedestrian Path
0
50’
150’
300’
CIRCULATION AND PARKING MASTER PLAN REPORT
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THE MASTER PLAN CONCEPTS CAMPUS DESTINATIONS AND PEDESTRIAN LINKS Several open space destinations have been identified on the campus including: 1. The Academic Core: The main quadrangle between the Grace Center and Seton Library could be enhanced by proposed changes to the library and the construction of a new academic building. The addition of the new Peter Jay Sharp Athletic and Recreation Center has made this zone an important destination for athletics and recreation. 2. The Residential Core: A series of interconnected residential quadrangles at Alumnae and Spellman Halls would help create the impression of a residential village, with places for passive recreation and socialization.
Other destinations are also are linked by pedestrian paths. These include: ••
Connections between the Grace Center, Seton, and Founders Hall, and
••
Connections between the Sisters of Charity residential buildings and LeGras Hall.
3. The River Gateway: The major downhill path from the Academic Core leads directly to the “River Gateway” defined informally by Fonthill Castle, Founders Hall, and Maryvale Hall. There are two pedestrian links between the Campus Gateway and the River Lawn. 4. The River Lawn: This sacred green space is a beloved feature of the campus. A great ceremonial stair leads from Founders Hall to this expansive lawn.
LEGEND: Campus Destinations and Pedestrian Links Existing Campus Buildings Existing Neighboring BuildPotential New Academic Buildings Potential New Residential Buildings Potential Athletic/Event Space Major Destinations Other Destinations
The Academic Core
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Links
0
50’
150’
300’
DESTINATIONS & LINKS MASTER PLAN REPORT
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THE MASTER PLAN CONCEPTS CAMPUS LANDSCAPE PLAN The landscape concept responds to the natural topography of the site which divides the campus into three relatively level terraces separated by two areas of wooded steep slopes:
Four basic landscape types are found on the campus, responding to the topography of the site:
•
1. The romantic landscape at Grotto Park;
•
•
From Riverdale Avenue the main road passes through the upper terrace characterized by a romantic landscape surrounding the Grotto. An area of dense woods separates this level from the terrace to the west at the middle of the campus. At the middle terrace, an academic core is formed by Seton Library, the Grace Center, and new multi-use building. The academic quadrangle here connects to the residential quadrangles of Mastronardi, Alumnae and Spellman Halls. A wide woodland slope separates the academic core level from the final terrace—the River Lawn —at the western edge of the campus. The edges of Founders Hall, Maryvale, and Fonthill form a “gateway” to this important green space.
2. Dense wooded slopes between the level terraces; 3. The open lawn to the west of Founders Hall; 4. Quadrangles found at the residential and academic core.
LEGEND: Landscape Plan Existing Campus Buildings Existing Neighboring BuildPotential New Academic Buildings Potential New Residential Buildings Potential Athletic/Event Space
The Grotto
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Dense wooded slopes
COLLEGE OF MOUNT SAINT VINCENT
The River Lawn
Dense Woods
Open Lawns
Steep Slopes
Quads
Romantic Landscape
Sacred Spaces
RIVER LAWN
RIVER GATEWAY
ACADEMIC CORE
RESIDENTIAL CORE
0
50’
150’
LOURDES PARK
300’
LANDSCAPE PLAN MASTER PLAN REPORT
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THE MASTER PLAN CONCEPTS THE OVERALL CAMPUS PLAN The development of the campus to date has been fundamentally determined by the topography of the site. Level terraces between wooded slopes have been used predominantly for the construction of buildings, and Hudson River views have been maximized wherever possible. The fundamental campus plan concept is to build on the historical development of the campus, to respect the natural lay of the land, and to strongly define and reinforce the concept of open space destinations which are key to the communal life of the campus. The overall concept emerges from a layered composite of the preceding diagrams. In the campus plan, three primary quadrangles are identified: the main academic quadrangle, the interconnected residential quadrangles, and the “gateway.� These important destinations will be linked by pedestrian connections and served by vehicular access. Two other unique features will remain on the campus: the romantic and sacred landscape of the Grotto which is level with Riverdale Avenue, and the great lawn which borders the railroad tracks and the Hudson River and opens the entire western edge of the campus to magnificent views of the Palisades.
Mount Saint Vincent today
LEGEND: Overall Campus Plan Existing Campus Buildings Existing Neighboring BuildPotential New Academic Buildings Potential New Residential Buildings Potential Athletic/Event Space Primary Vehicular Access Secondary Vehicular Access
RIVER LAWN
Steep Slopes Links
Archival photo of Mount Saint Vincent
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RIVER GATEWAY
Zones
RIVER LAWN
RIVER GATEWAY
ACADEMIC CORE
LOURDES PARK
RESIDENTIAL CORE
0
50’
150’
300’
CAMPUS PLAN MASTER PLAN REPORT
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THE MASTER PLAN BUILDING PROJECTS ACADEMIC: FOUNDERS HALL AND THE ACADEMY Founders Hall has been in continuous use since it was built in 1857. It is an enormous building, containing more than 108,000 square feet of space. The building houses the Chapel, classrooms, departmental and administrative offices, student activities offices, dining facilities, public reception and assembly spaces, the bookstore, and space that is leased to English Language Services. The locations for many of the offices and classrooms have been random and haphazard, evolving over many years as spaces became available. A study of the building completed during the original Master Plan revealed the potential for creating rational, coherent floor plans. This plans is being implemented in phases. In the phased plan, departmental offices are consolidated to form an identifiable wing; administrative areas are consolidated and classrooms grouped together. Public spaces are enhanced and more student lounge space is created.
Smith Hall in The Academy
Four phases of work on Founders Hall have already taken place.
Benedict’s in Founders Hall
Renovated space on the first floor of Founders Hall
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COLLEGE OF MOUNT SAINT VINCENT
Classroom in Founders Hall
President’s reception room in Founders Hall
RETAIL ADMINISTRATION ASSEMBLY SERVICES CLASSROOMS CIRCULATION DEPARTMENT OFFICES SACRED SPACES
The Academy North
Center
South
FIRST FLOOR
MASTER PLAN REPORT
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THE MASTER PLAN BUILDING PROJECTS ACADEMIC: FOUNDERS HALL AND THE ACADEMY RETAIL ADMINISTRATION ASSEMBLY SERVICES CLASSROOMS CIRCULATION DEPARTMENT OFFICES
The Chapel
Smith Hall
SACRED SPACES
Administrative Offices (Finance, Financial Aid, Registrar, Student Accounts) North
SECOND FLOOR
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SECOND COLLEGE OFFLOOR MOUNT SAINT VINCENT
Administrative Offices (including the President and Provost) Center
The Academy South
RETAIL ADMINISTRATION ASSEMBLY SERVICES CLASSROOMS CIRCULATION DEPARTMENT OFFICES SACRED SPACES
Departmental Offices North
Classrooms
The Academy
Center
South
THIRD FLOOR
THIRD FLOOR
MASTER PLAN REPORT
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THE MASTER PLAN BUILDING PROJECTS ACADEMIC: FOUNDERS HALL AND THE ACADEMY RETAIL ADMINISTRATION ASSEMBLY SERVICES CLASSROOMS CIRCULATION DEPARTMENT OFFICES SACRED SPACES
Departmental Offices North
FOURTH FLOOR
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FOURTH COLLEGE OFFLOOR MOUNT SAINT VINCENT
The Academy Center
South
RETAIL ADMINISTRATION ASSEMBLY SERVICES CLASSROOMS CIRCULATION DEPARTMENT OFFICES SACRED SPACES
The Academy North
Center
South
FIFTH FLOOR
FIFTH FLOOR
MASTER PLAN REPORT
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THE MASTER PLAN BUILDING PROJECTS THE NEW ACADEMIC QUADRANGLE A proposed option for providing additional academic space in the future involves constructing a new classroom building flanking the Grace Center. This building, together with the Seton Library and Science Hall, would create a new academic quadrangle at the Academic Core. While the construction of a new academic building is a long-range project, the College is studying the expansion and renovation of the library. This project might include a connecting bridge between the library and Science Hall.
Aerial view of the campus core today
Aerial view of new academic quadrangle
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View from road to the campus core today
Perspective view into new academic quad formed by Seton Library (left), the Grace Center (right), flanked by new academic buildings.
MASTER PLAN REPORT
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THE MASTER PLAN BUILDING PROJECTS NEW STUDENT HOUSING & NURSING LABORATORIES Since the previous Master Plan in 2004, a new 194-bed residence building, Mastronardi Hall, was constructed adjacent to Alumnae Hall. Attaching Mastronardi to Alumnae Hall defined a new residential quadrangle which is used for passive student activities.
Founders Hall
The next new project would most likely be the construction of a new residence hall adjacent to Seton Hall, to the east of Founders Hall. This project might also include academic space to support the nursing program which is currently located in Founders Hall.
The Academy
New Dorm
Seton
Seton Dormitory seen from the east
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Existing site between Seton and Founders
Site with new mixed use dorm building and terraced courtyard
A new mixed use building between Seton Hall and Founders Hall would house space for the nursing laboratories on its lowest floors, and residential space on the remaining floors.
MASTER PLAN REPORT
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THE MASTER PLAN BUILDING PROJECTS ATHLETICS AND RECREATION In order to adequately house recreational and intercollegiate activities and attract new students and student athletes to the College, the Peter Jay Sharp Athletic and Recreation Center was constructed in 2012. A new multipurpose athletic field to the west of Marillac was completed in 2014. Future expansion of the athletic facilities are anticipated with the construction of “The Link” at Peter Jay Sharp. This project would create a Wrestling Room, and would include a new fitness center and locker rooms. Gymnasium in the Peter Jay Sharp Center
Lobby in the Peter Jay Sharp Center
Peter Jay Sharp Athletic and Recreation Center
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COLLEGE OF MOUNT SAINT VINCENT
Dance studio in the Peter Jay Sharp Center
Images of “The Link” at the Peter Jay Sharp Center (design and illustrations by Environetics)
MASTER PLAN REPORT
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THE MASTER PLAN SUSTAINABILITY PROJECTS CAMPUS GREEN INITIATIVES
ENERGY PROJECTS
From the point of view of sustainable design, a campus is a group of buildings and a landscape that operate together. It is essential to look at the broader picture—not only at the impact of each building, but also the impact of the entire collection of buildings and landscape interventions. The success or failure of a campus in terms of its sustainability can be quantified:
The Operations Department is in process of developing four key energy initiatives that will:
• • • • • • •
How much energy is consumed by the campus? How much energy is generated on campus? What is the carbon footprint of the campus? What is the stormwater impact of the campus? What percentage of the campus acreage is covered in vegetation? How much of the vegetation resembles a self-sustaining, natural landscape? What is the total impact of the campus on larger, natural systems?
In order to influence the sustainability of the entire campus, the following issues need to be addressed: • What is the combined effect of runoff and infiltration from buildings and all land surfaces on the campus? • What is the combined energy model for the entire campus landscape and all of the buildings? • What are the positive aspects of the buildings and the landscape on the campus? These might include self-sustaining buildings and landscape strategies. • What are the negative aspects of the buildings and the landscape on the campus? These might include the heat-island effect of all the buildings and land surfaces, the pollution added to the stormwater sewage system, and the burden of storm sewage and sanitary sewage contributed by the campus.
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•
Reduce MSV’s carbon footprint,
• •
Reduce energy consumption and energy costs, Address overdue deferred maintenance projects,
•
Lower facilities’ maintenance costs, and
•
Enhance MSV’s “green” profile.
Some of the projects will be funded through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with an energy provider. In a PPA, an institution purchases power from a utility or other energy-producing provider. The provider funds the institution’s new energy-efficient systems and upgrades, and benefits financially by savings in energy consumption over a predeteremined period of time. Once that period ends, the institution owns the equipment and receives 100% of the savings. Using a PPA will allow the College to undertake energy improvement projects without incurring debt or out-of-pocket cost. Most PPA’s have a locked-in utility rate for the term and have a built-in, guaranteed savings. If the College’s savings rates increase, there would be a 50/50 split of the savings with the provider; if the College fails to meet the savings rates, the provider would pay the College. With a PPA, payments would be paid to the utility provider from the College’s regular operating budget and would not appear as debt. Most of these initiatives qualify for some funding from NYSERDA and Con-Edison.
The following projects may be funded through PPAs: 1. Oil to Gas Conversions: In this initiative, the current heating plants that are using fuel oil would be changed to high pressure natural gas. All conversion costs would include: • Bringing gas to the buildings if no gas lines exist; • Cleaning and or lining the chimneys; • Removing any existing oil tanks; • Converting burners from oil to high pressure gas; • Breaching work, if needed. Currently, conversions from oil to gas are being considered for Founders Hall, the Convent, Hayes, and Science Hall. Oil to gas conversions have the ability to provide up to a 30% reduction in utility costs annually. The College is also studying an option for adding co-generation to Spellman, Alumnae, and the Library. If co-generation were added, efficient central ventilation and air conditioning could be achieved for these buildings. 2. Solar Panels: The College is currently in the process of designing solar panels for the roofs of Spellman, Alumnae, the Library, the Pavilion and Peter Jay Sharp. This work includes replacing the roofs at Spellman, the Library, and the Pavilion. After expanding and rebuilding the Villa parking lot, solar covered carports would be installed. Adding solar to these areas will provide approximately 520KW of replacement electricity that will not have to be pulled from the grid.
3. Lighting Upgrades: LED lamps are highly efficient and last approximately ten times longer than fluorescent bulbs. Incandescent and fluorescent lighting will be replaced initially at the five dormitory buildings as well as Hayes, the lobby of Peter Jay Sharp, and the Library. All exterior lights (wall packs on buildings and street lights) will also be changed. Lighting upgrades can decrease electric costs by 7% to 10% annually and reduce required maintenance for bulb replacement. 4. Energy Management: This initiative involves a three-part strategy: • Part 1 is to use the Building Management System for the newer HVAC systems and add a scheduling component to regulate heating and cooling temperatures based on building occupancy. • Part 2 calls for replacing thermostats on older equipment (i.e., equipment that is not currently on the Building Management System) with digital programmable thermostats. This will also allow systems to operate on set schedules based upon building occupancy. • Part 3 involves working with the security staff to enhance their training. As part of their building closure procedures, they will close windows, turn off air conditioners, turn off classroom and office lights, and turn off all lighting in hallways and common spaces. Training will also include opening and closing procedures for campus events that take place after hours and on weekends.
MASTER PLAN REPORT
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THE MASTER PLAN DEFERRED MAINTENANCE PROJECTS FOUNDERS HALL & THE ACADEMY
FONTHILL CASTLE
There are currently plans to renovate and upgrade all of Founders Hall over a period of time. To date, renovations have been completed on most of the first floor, on the north wings of the third and fourth floors, and the north and center sections of the fifth floor. The sequence for future phased work at Founders Hall is as follows:
Renovations needed to the Castle, include renovation of the exterior envelope of the building including masonry work, replacement of windows and trim.
1. 2. 3. 4.
Construction of new stacked bathrooms on each floor. Completion of renovation work on the first floor. Completion of renovation work on the second floor of the north wing. Renovation of the exterior envelope including windows, façades and masonry. 5. Renovation of the remainder of the building including the remaining classroom and office space in the center and south sections. 6. The Academy: renovate the building envelope and the upper three floors for academic department offices.
SCIENCE HALL Phases 1, 2 and 3 have been completed. The fourth and final phase of renovations includes HVAC upgrades to the lecture hall and to the remaining laboratory, prep room and main departmental offices.
ELIZABETH SETON LIBRARY The Library will be completely renovated inside and out. The renovations will start with the building envelope then continue to the interior. All three floors will be fully remodeled, and a new bridge will be constructed to connect the Library to Science Hall.
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COLLEGE OF MOUNT SAINT VINCENT
PETER JAY SHARP ATHLETIC CENTER CARDINAL HAYES AUDITORIUM AND GYM Since the construction of the Peter Jay Sharp Athletic and Recreation Center at the north end of the Cardinal Hayes Auditorium & Gym, two phases of renovations have taken place to create the dance studio, athletic offices and the fitness center. Future plans include renovation of the locker room and the construction of a wrestling practice room/event space in “The Link” between Hayes and Peter Jay Sharp.
RESIDENCE HALLS Alumnae, Mastronardi, Seton, and Marillac are all now on a regular maintenance rotation schedule. Spellman Hall will receive routine maintenance this summer. Additionally, there are plans to renovate all of the bathroom facilities and plumbing infrastructure in this building. A final phase of renovations to Marillac will take place in the future. These renovations include an electrical upgrade, hallway renovations including lighting, completing the sprinklers throughout the building and finishing the lounge space on the first floor.
COLLEGE OF MOUNT SAINT VINCENT
“Bonitatem et disciplinam et scientiam doce me.”