Longwood University’s 2015 Master Plan process is nearing its final stages.

According to Longwood spokesman Matthew McWilliams, the university’s “board of visitors approved the overall concepts of the plan, and we are moving toward a final publication of the plan in December.”

A press release from Longwood University said “with several construction projects already in the pipeline, Longwood’s Master Planning process has examined some long-term building needs, but its chief focus has been on strengthening spaces on and adjoining campus that already exist.”

“The idea has been to build on the classical elegance of Longwood’s central campus and strengthen — through architectural refinements, intelligent use of space, and improved landscaping — the sense of place that has commanded the affection of generations of Longwood alumni,” the release stated.

The final plan will focus on maximizing community energy, improving the look of the campus, contributing to revitalizing Farmville and developing pedestrian connections between campus and surrounding areas. 

“Longwood and Farmville have great character and personality, and by working together we are on track to become an even better place to work and live, and truly one of America’s great college towns,” said President W. Taylor Reveley IV.

“We are working with Cooper Robertson because they are the best in the business, and the ideas they have helped generate will have a lasting impact on generations of students,” Reveley said.

Cooper Robertson practices architectural design concerning cultural/educational buildings and urban design challenges. The release stated that the plan does not expect Longwood University to grow exponentially in size, however, modest increases will be ideally due to improved retention.

“Now, in the months ahead, we will undertake the important work of refining and fleshing out these ideas,” Reveley said in the release. “As they come into final form by December, we look forward to sharing them broadly with the Longwood and Farmville communities,” he said.