This project is the next step in the implementation of the Hilltop Village, a re-imagination of the southern part of WMU’s main campus. Following closely on the heels of Arcadia Flats and the new Student Center and Dining Facility, this project begins to focus on the infrastructure of the larger master plan, which includes new pedestrian and vehicular walkways, outdoor spaces and the development of stronger campus connections.
The University engaged Fishbeck, a local design firm with expertise in all aspects of the project scope, to complete the design. The Christman Company won the bid for General Contractor. Construction began mid-summer 2023 and is expected to be finished by the start of Fall Semester, 2024.
The project includes an extension of the Hilltop Village’s main Loop Road, which travels up from Ring Road to the Student Center and back, creating the ‘Viewshed’ green space. The main pedestrian pathways traversing the Viewshed, from the Student Recreation Center to the newly renovated Dunbar Hall will also be constructed. A new foot bridge will allow pedestrians to pass over the Loop Road as they travel along the westmost portion of the pathway. All pathways and roads will be ADA compliant and accessible for all.
In addition to the site-related scope of work is a new, 5-story parking structure. Parking in this area is currently provided within many smaller, disparate surface lots, and the goal was to consolidate into a single structure to serve students, staff and visitors to the University. At the outset, there will be space for 357 vehicles, with accommodations for a future addition to the southwest side of the building and another 213 spaces for a total of 570. In addition to ample barrier-free parking spaces, the building will include electric vehicle charging stations, designated motorcycle parking and bicycle loops, to promote multiple types of transportation in and around campus.
The structure will be located where the old Burnhams Residence Hall was, which was demolished in the winter of 2023 to make way for the construction. It will share an outdoor plaza with Arcadia Flats, and will create nearby parking for the residents.
The structure is seeking ParkSmart Bronze certification, in an effort to further WMU’s sustainability mission. New to Parksmart? Learn about it!
Town Hall Presentation
Our second Town Hall presentation was held on 7 February 2023. The campus community, as well as the larger Kalamazoo community, were invited to see the design progress, ask questions and provide input. See the presentation here.
Changes Around South Campus
As construction begins, the south campus area will become tricky to navigate. See the site logistics plan for information on alternate walking, parking and driving routes in the area.
CONSTRUCTION CAM
Keep up to date with the construction progress with our live construction camera and 7-day time lapse!
Contact Us
Questions regarding the Hilltop Village Parking Structure, Loop Road Extension and Pedestrian Pathways project should be directed to John Seelman, Project Manager: john.seelman@wmich.edu or (269) 387-8539.