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Since its earliest days, the University of Utah has prioritized planning to support its mission of education, discovery, health care, and service. The 2008 Campus Master Plan guided development over the past 15 years, helping shape much of the campus we know today. The Campus Physical Development Framework builds on that legacy, offering a flexible vision for growth and evolution to meet the needs of future generations. As a cornerstone of Salt Lake City, the university is also mindful of its broader role in the community, from addressing urban challenges to preparing for the 2034 Winter Olympics.

Engaging with Our Communities

This framework is the result of a thoughtful and collaborative 14-month process involving extensive outreach and input from faculty, staff, students, patients, visitors, and the broader community.

Highlights of engagement:

  • 6,600+ letters sent to campus neighbors
  • 3,600+ website visits and 1,100+ online comments
  • 900+ survey responses
  • 600+ participants at open houses
  • 6300+ Instagram reactions and 130+ comments on social media
  • 200+ mapping surveys collected to identify favorite routes and areas of improvement
  • 30+ workshops with stakeholder groups
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Looking Ahead

The Campus Physical Development Framework serves as a guide, not a set of fixed decisions. It is designed to evolve alongside the university’s needs and opportunities, ensuring flexibility as new challenges and opportunities arise.  While the framework outlines broad goals and priorities, details—such as building locations, designs, and infrastructure improvements—will be shaped by further studies.

All future capital projects will undergo the university’s new Capital Approval Process, which has been streamlined to support faster, cost-effective, and strategic campus development. The new approach engages stakeholders earlier, ensures stronger project oversight, and aligns investments with the university’s long-term vision.

Capital Approval Process:

  1. Project Planning – Initial feasibility study, space assessment, and cost estimate.
  2. Stakeholder Engagement – Input from faculty, staff, leadership and other key stakeholders ensures alignment.
  3. Formal Review – Approval recommendations from Trustee Campus Master Plan Committee & University Capital Planning Committee.
  4. Leadership Approvals – Review by Senior Leadership Team,  Board of Trustees, and Utah Board of Higher Education.
  5. Legislative and Implementation – For state-funded projects, final approval before construction begins.