Key Strategies – Physical Development Framework

Create College Town Magic

Creating a vibrant, best-in-class student experience is at the heart of the Campus Physical Development Framework. This strategy focuses on creating a lively, around-the-clock campus environment—what we call “College Town Magic.” This reimagined hub will feature additional housing, walkable streets, retail, dining, and recreational spaces.

A key element of this transformation is the potential relocation of the Jon M. Huntsman Center, unlocking valuable space for student-focused development and enhancing connectivity across academics, athletics, and residential life. This coincides with ongoing conversations about the future of an aging arena and needs for a best-in-class multipurpose facility to serve the next generation of fans, students, and our community. Further studies are underway to determine the best location for a new arena, ensuring it aligns with long-term growth, accessibility, parking, and sustainability goals. Events will continue at the Huntsman Center until a new arena is constructed.

Support growth of student body to 40,000+
House more students on campus
Relocate the Jon M. Huntsman Center
New pedestrian-friendly community spaces
Increase dining, retail, grocery and cultural options

Advance Research, Innovation & Health Care

To maintain the U’s leadership in research and discovery, this strategy expands lab space, strengthens industry partnerships, and creates a dedicated research district. The goal is to provide cutting-edge facilities that empower faculty and students to pursue world-class research, attract top-tier funding, and advance innovation in science, technology, and healthcare. By investing in research infrastructure, patient care facilities, and interdisciplinary collaboration, the university is ensuring that its physical campus supports a thriving innovation ecosystem that benefits the entire state and beyond.

Support $1B in projected annual research funding
Increase academic and research space
Add outpatient facilities to improve patient access
Improve classroom and lab seat occupancy rates

Rethink Transportation, Parking & Open Space

A well-connected, accessible campus is key to long-term success. This strategy prioritizes a “car-lite” core with strategically located parking, improved shuttle routes, and enhanced bike and pedestrian infrastructure to make campus easier to navigate. By addressing parking challenges and preserving green space, the university is fostering a more sustainable, pedestrian-friendly environment. Expanding open spaces will further enhance the campus’s role as a welcoming place for gathering, reflection, and outdoor activity.

Reduce the percentage of vehicular travel to campus
Enhance campus open space
Expand shuttles and TRAX connections and schedules
Create a safe and convenient pedestrian and bike network
Address parking challenges through further study