Summary of Observations by Ayers/Saint/Gross
Spring 1999

June 1999 It is apparent that the JHU community believes that the physical quality of the place is beloved and important to its academic excellence. There is a sense of apprehension caused by recent and pending physical changes to the campus because of the possibility of many of these revered qualities being negatively affected. We want to create a plan that facilitates growth that will have a positive affect the Homewood campus a plan that encourages unity, coherence, and balance.

July 1999 Though the campus is attractive, compact, easy to walk and has many other positive features, the Ayers/Saint/Gross team has observed the existence of these issues:

The natural systems of the campus are deteriorating. Woodlands are diminishing. Water quality and stream character are threatened.

The aesthetic character of the campus is not consistent with the stature of the institution. The public faces of the campus are weak (there is little indication to the driver or pedestrian that one is approaching or at the campus; it's not clear where the edges are). The environment for pedestrians deteriorates outside the core quadrangles. There is a shortage of informal recreational space.

The campus does not have a strong physical relationship with the surrounding neighborhoods.

Vehicles are pervasive. There are many hazards for pedestrians. Circulation hierarchy is unclear (no differentiation between primary and "local" roads). The road network is confusing (a driver can enter the main entrance to campus from the south, go straight and end up in a dead end at a loading dock. Signage is poor.). Visitor parking is disorganized and inefficient. There is a lack of appropriate accommodation for service vehicles.

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