The first phase of the planning endeavor was to undertake limited master planning that would facilitate the conceptual design of renovating and perhaps expanding Zabriskie Hall, which was dedicated in 1906 as the college science building. The study revealed that the additional space needs and the space requirements might be better served in a new, stand-along building. After undertaking a campus planning effort that involved comprehensive examination of existing building and site conditions, a site was selected and a logistical plan devised.
Of note, is the creation of a new parking facility that brought the campus up to NYSDEC standards for water attenuation and water quality. Particular attention was given to planting native trees and shrubs consistent with surrounding woodlands and carefully developing site grading that disturbed the smallest possible area.
