Facilities, Campus Planning & Sustainability Policy

I. PREAMBLE

Atlas University regards its grounds, buildings, and infrastructure as a visible theology — material expressions of divine order, beauty, and stewardship. The design and maintenance of our campus must therefore reflect holiness, functionality, and environmental care. Every brick, corridor, and garden is consecrated to the service of learning and worship.

II. PURPOSE

This policy governs the planning, construction, maintenance, safety, and sustainability of all University properties and facilities. Its objectives are to:

  1. Ensure all facilities support the mission and strategic goals of Atlas University.

  2. Establish standards for architecture, engineering, and environmental stewardship.

  3. Maintain compliance with state and federal building, safety, and accessibility regulations.

  4. Integrate sustainability practices that embody the University’s theology of creation care.

III. ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITY

OfficeResponsibilityPresidentFinal approval of capital projects and land use.Chief Financial Officer (CFO)Oversees budgeting and financial compliance for facilities.Director of Facilities Management (DFM)Directs day-to-day operations, maintenance, and sustainability programs.Campus Planning Committee (CPC)Advisory group that reviews all new construction, renovation, and landscaping proposals.Chief Safety Officer (CSO)Ensures code compliance, risk management, and emergency preparedness.

IV. CAMPUS MASTER PLANNING

  1. Master Plan Development: Atlas University shall maintain a ten-year Campus Master Plan, approved by the Board of Trustees, detailing academic, residential, and infrastructure growth.

  2. Design Principles:

    • Classical proportion and sacred geometry consistent with the Atlas architectural aesthetic.

    • Harmonious integration of natural and built environments.

    • Accessibility and inclusiveness under ADA Standards for Accessible Design (28 CFR Part 36).

  3. Review Cycle: The Master Plan is reviewed every five years by the CPC to ensure alignment with enrollment, technology, and sustainability goals.

V. CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION POLICY

  1. Project Approval: All capital projects exceeding $50,000 require approval by the President and Board Finance Committee.

  2. Standards:

    • Compliance with Florida Building Code and NFPA Life Safety Code.

    • Use of licensed architects and contractors.

    • Incorporation of energy-efficient systems (LED lighting, HVAC optimization).

    • Environmental impact assessments for all new development.

  3. Procurement: Competitive bids required for major projects; preference given to contractors adhering to ethical and sustainable practices.

  4. Documentation: As-built drawings, warranties, and maintenance manuals archived in the Facilities Office.

VI. FACILITIES MAINTENANCE AND OPERATIONS

  1. Preventive Maintenance:

    • Scheduled inspections of HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems every quarter.

    • Roof, structure, and life-safety inspections annually.

  2. Work Orders: Requests submitted via Facilities Management Portal; priority based on safety and academic impact.

  3. Custodial Services: Maintain cleanliness, sanitation, and presentation standards befitting sacred learning spaces.

  4. Utilities Management: Usage monitored monthly to track efficiency goals.

VII. SAFETY, ACCESSIBILITY, AND EMERGENCY READINESS

  1. All buildings must comply with ADA, OSHA, and NFPA 101 codes.

  2. Fire drills and evacuation signage maintained under CSO oversight.

  3. Emergency power and lighting tested bi-annually.

  4. Elevators and lifts inspected and certified per state regulation.

  5. Accessibility audits conducted every two years by external specialists.

VIII. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SUSTAINABILITY POLICY

1. Theological Foundation

Sustainability at Atlas is an act of obedience to Genesis 2:15 — “to tend and to keep.” Creation care is not ideology but covenantal stewardship.

2. Sustainability Goals

  • Achieve carbon-neutral operations by 2035.

  • Reduce energy consumption 25 % by 2030.

  • Implement comprehensive recycling and composting programs campus-wide.

  • Utilize drought-resistant landscaping and rain-harvesting systems.

  • Prioritize sustainable materials in all new construction.

3. Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC)

Composed of faculty, students, and staff to monitor progress and recommend initiatives; reports annually to the Board.

4. Green Purchasing

All procurement must consider lifecycle cost, energy efficiency, and environmental impact; preference given to vendors certified by ENERGY STAR or equivalent.

IX. SPACE MANAGEMENT

  1. Allocation: Classroom and office space assigned by the Provost in consultation with DFM.

  2. Scheduling: Centralized through the Facilities Scheduling Office; academic use has priority.

  3. External Use: Rentals for conferences or events permitted only when consistent with University mission and with signed Facility Use Agreement and insurance certificate.

X. CAMPUS AESTHETICS AND LANDSCAPING

  1. Design Code: Campus landscaping shall reflect beauty and order—balanced symmetry, native flora, and contemplative gardens.

  2. Outdoor Art and Monuments: Approved by the CPC; must embody theological or historical significance.

  3. Lighting: Designed for safety, energy efficiency, and minimal light pollution.

XI. ENERGY AND WATER CONSERVATION

  1. Building automation systems monitored for optimal performance.

  2. Smart irrigation tied to weather sensors.

  3. Water-use audits conducted every three years.

  4. Renewable energy sources (solar, geothermal) evaluated for feasibility at each major project.

XII. MAINTENANCE RECORDS AND INSPECTIONS

  • All inspections documented electronically.

  • Records retained for ten years or the life of the facility, whichever is longer.

  • Reports integrated into Institutional Effectiveness and Audit systems.

XIII. CAMPUS DEVELOPMENT FUNDING

  • Capital projects financed through approved budgets, designated gifts, or endowment draws.

  • No construction may commence without secured funding and Board authorization.

  • Donor-funded buildings follow University design and naming standards.

XIV. REVIEW AND AMENDMENT

This Policy shall be reviewed every two years by the Campus Planning Committee and approved by the President and Board of Trustees.