University of Utah Research Park Master Plan

Project Description

Located on 320 acres of ancient Lake Bonneville shoreline, the University of Utah Research Park houses 50 companies, 82 academic departments, and nearly 14,000 employees and students. It was established in the late 1960s to advance research, knowledge sharing, and the application of experience in all fields of learning.

As the ecological consultant on a master planning team led by Perkins & Will, Biohabitats helped create an updated master plan to guide the evolution of the Research Park campus into a vibrant, urban community that supports the University’s research mission while also improving regional ecology and the quality of life for future residents.

In the first phase of the project, Biohabitats conducted a campus-wide ecological assessment and analysis in order to infuse ecological goals, recommendations for long term resiliency, and consideration of natural systems into the new master plan. This ecological framework also supported concept development and future programming.

In the second phase of the project, Biohabitats developed concept-level strategies for sustainable stormwater management and ecological enhancement. Strategies included daylighting a piped spring, building upon the University’s vision for Red Butte Creek, and integrating low-impact development and ecological improvement into open space area.

(video produced by Perkins&Will)